Constipation

Chronic constipation is infrequent bowel movements or difficult passage of stools that persists for several weeks or longer. Constipation is a common complaint, which is simple to prevent and easy to treat most of the time. Rarely, it may be a sign of a more serious problem that requires medical treatment. In some cases, medical tests may be ordered by your physician.

Normal Bowel Function

The colon (large intestine) stores, processes and gets rid of fecal waste. It also absorbs some water and electrolytes. The rectum (the bottom section of the colon) stores fecal waste prior to it exiting through the anus. The range of "normal" bowel function varies greatly from person to person. The belief that one should have a bowel movement every day is inaccurate. This often leads to needless worry and even the misuse of laxatives. In general terms, bowel movements should:

  • Occur at least once every third day
  • Not exceed more than three per day
  • Pass easily and not require excessive straining
  • Result in a feeling of complete elimination

Symptoms

Given the wide range of normal bowel function, feeling constipated varies from person to person. A change in your usual pattern may indicate you are constipated. Constipation symptoms are usually relieved by having a bowel movement. Symptoms of constipation include:

  • Infrequent bowel movements
  • Hard or small stools
  • Difficult-to-pass stools that require straining and may cause pain
  • Incomplete bowel movements with a feeling of "still needing to go"
  • Feeling bloated
  • Mild nausea or abdominal cramps
Causes

Most often, constipation is due to a combination of any of these three factors:

  • A diet low in fiber
  • Inadequate fluid intake
  • Lack of physical activity or exercise

Other causes may include:

  • Medical conditions, such as diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, low thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism), depression and other less common diseases
  • Medications prescribed for pain relief, high blood pressure, antidepressants, psychiatric drugs and antacids
  • Inflammatory bowel diseases such as diverticulitis or Crohn's disease that cause excessive scarring and narrowing
  • Tumors or growths in the colon that physically block the bowel
Prevention

Generally, constipation can be prevented by maintaining good intestinal health by:

  • Eating 25 to 35 grams of fiber per day
  • Choosing whole grain breads, cereals and fiber bars, fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Drinking six to eight glasses of water per day
  • Exercising regularly (such as taking a brisk walk 30 minutes a day)
Treatment

Consult your physician before taking laxatives. There are many over-the-counter laxatives available in grocery stores and pharmacies. Laxatives help alleviate constipation but work in different ways. They may need to be taken on a regular basis for effective relief of chronic constipation.

When to See a Physician

Schedule an appointment with a member of our team as soon as possible if constipation is:

  • Recurring and persistent
  • Long term, but more frequent or severe
  • Uncontrolled even though you have followed the prevention tips
  • Severely painful or accompanied by blood in your stools
  • Associated with a change in normal bowel habits (such as narrow or loose stools)
  • Associated with excessive weight loss or rectal bleeding