Constipation is caused primarily by stool moving too slowly through the large intestine (colon), which allows the colon to absorb too much water from the stool, making it hard, dry, and difficult to pass

. The main causes include:

• Diet and lifestyle factors:
  • Not eating enough dietary fiber found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

* Insufficient fluid intake leading to dehydration

* Lack of regular exercise or physical inactivity

* Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement, which causes more water absorption and harder stools

* Changes in routine or lifestyle, such as travel, pregnancy, or aging

• Medications:
  • Opioid pain relievers and other drugs used for pain, high blood pressure, seizures, depression, Parkinson’s disease, and allergies can cause constipation as a side effect

• Medical conditions and physiological causes:
  • Problems with pelvic floor muscles that affect stool passage

* Intestinal blockages or tumors in the colon or rectum

* Disorders affecting muscles, nerves, or hormones involved in bowel movements, such as irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, hypothyroidism, and Parkinson’s disease

* Hormonal changes during pregnancy

In summary, constipation results from a combination of slow stool transit, insufficient fiber and fluid intake, lack of exercise, medication side effects, and certain medical or physiological conditions