The causative factors of constipation can be classified into the following categories:

1. Suppression of the natural urge for defecation or carelessness in attending to the calls of nature at the appropriate time causes constipation.



2. Improper diet and drinks: Greater intake of refined and wind forming food and less of vegetables and water, food and drink causing sluggishness of the liver, generally leads to constipation and piles. You should avoid foods that are low in fiber.
3. Sedentary habits: Lack of sufficient physical exercise makes people most prone to get constipation and piles.
4. Lack of sleep and mental tension: Lack of adequate rest to the mind in the form of sleep at night and conditions of mental tension affect the digestion leading to constipation.

1. Intake of drugs which are made of synthetic chemicals affects the nerves controlling the activities of the intestines. Sometimes the intestines themselves become weak because of the intake of such drugs which leads to constipation. Some narcotic drugs such as opium and its derivatives often taken to relieve pain or induce tranquility of the mind or sleep are by nature constipative. To reduce mental tension and sleeplessness, such drugs are used more and more now-a-days causing thereby widespread constipation and piles.
2. Pregnancy during which hormonal and physical changes take place may cause constipation.

1. Menopause and menstruation: Life style and hormonal changes at these times may cause constipation.
2. Ageing slows down a lot of bodily functions including the digestive system and hence causes constipation.