Inhibited intestinal motility causes repeated absorption of water, producing dry and hard stools as little water is left to soften and lubricate the stools (Crisp & Taylor, 2001).

This causes the affected individual to strain when defecating and can lead to hemorrhoid. The distended bowel gives a feeling of abdominal fullness and discomfort (Partridge & Smith, 1987).

Hardened fecal material that is lodged in the appendix can cause appendicitis (Sherwood, 2007).

Lifestyle related cause of constipation include inadequate dietary fiber, dehydration, stress and sedentary lifestyle.

Fiber is necessary to form bulk in stool while activity generally increases bowel motility. Fluid is needed for lubrication and prevention of dry stools while exercise helps stimulate bowel contraction. Stress might cause constipation as it reduces blood flow to the digestive organs due to sympathetic nervous system activation (Dosh, 2002).

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