Constipation: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, and More

Constipation is a prevalent digestive issue that affects countless individuals, causing significant discomfort and disruption to their daily lives. To effectively manage and prevent this condition, it is essential to understand its causes, recognise its symptoms, and be aware of the available treatment options. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the various aspects of constipation, providing valuable insights and practical advice for those seeking relief.

What is Constipation?

Constipation is a condition characterised by infrequent or difficult bowel movements, typically resulting in the passage of hard, dry stools. It is generally defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week. While normal bowel habits can vary from person to person, constipation often involves a slow transit of food through the colon, leading to excessive water absorption and the formation of solid, challenging-to-pass stools. Understanding the defining features of constipation is crucial for identifying the condition and seeking appropriate treatment.

Symptoms of Constipation

The symptoms of constipation can manifest differently in each individual, but some common signs include:

• Difficult and painful bowel movements
• Infrequent bowel movements (fewer than three times a week)
• Feeling bloated or uncomfortable in the abdomen
• Experiencing a sense of sluggishness or lack of energy
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Passing hard or lumpy stools
• Straining excessively during bowel movements
• Feeling incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement

Danger Signs of Constipation

Although constipation is generally a manageable condition, there are specific warning signs that indicate the need for prompt medical intervention:

• Severe abdominal pain that does not subside with usual treatments
• Vomiting, particularly when accompanied by abdominal pain or fever
• Presence of blood in the stool or black, tarry stools
• High fever along with abdominal pain or vomiting
• Faecal impaction, where a hard stool becomes lodged in the rectum and cannot be passed
• Overflow diarrhoea, characterised by loose stools leaking around an impacted stool, signifying a blockage

If you experience any of these danger signs, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly to prevent potential complications and ensure proper treatment.

What Causes Constipation?

Constipation can stem from various factors that affect the digestive system. Some key causes include:

• Medications like opioids, antidepressants, and certain blood pressure drugs
• Low-fibre diets, insufficient hydration, and high intake of dairy and processed foods
• Lack of physical activity and sedentary lifestyles
• Changes in routine, such as travel or shift work
• Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
• Medical conditions like hypothyroidism, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and neurological disorders
• Intestinal obstructions or blockages
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy or other life stages

Constipation Treatment Options

The specific treatment approach depends on the cause, severity, and duration of the constipation. Let us explore some key treatment strategies.

Lifestyle Changes

Making simple lifestyle adjustments can often provide relief from constipation:

• Increase your intake of fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep stools soft
• Engage in regular physical activity to stimulate bowel movements
• Establish a consistent bowel routine and avoid ignoring the urge to defecate

Over-the-Counter Medications

Various over-the-counter laxatives can help alleviate constipation:

Home Remedies

Several home remedies can provide relief from constipation symptoms:

• Start your day with warm liquids like tea or broth to stimulate bowel movements
• Include prunes and bran cereal in your diet as natural laxatives
• Consume probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt and kefir to support gut health
• Limit your intake of constipating foods such as dairy products, processed meats, and refined carbohydrates

How to Avoid Constipation

Constipation can often be prevented by making simple lifestyle and dietary changes. Here are some effective ways to avoid constipation:

• Eat a High-Fibre Diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in your daily meals. Aim for 20–35 g of fibre per day.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water and other fluids throughout the day. Avoid excessive consumption of diuretic beverages like tea, coffee, and alcohol.
• Exercise Regularly: Engage in physical activities like walking, jogging, or swimming for at least 30 minutes a day to promote bowel movement.
• Establish a Routine: Try to maintain a regular bowel habit by going to the toilet at the same time each day, preferably after breakfast.
• Limit Low-Fibre Foods: Reduce your intake of processed foods, meats, and dairy products, as they can contribute to constipation.

Risk Factors of Constipation

Several factors can make you more susceptible to constipation. These include:

• Medications: Some drugs, such as opioids, antidepressants, antihistamines, and certain blood pressure medications, can slow down bowel movements.
• Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to constipation by slowing down the movement of food through the digestive system.
• Poor Dietary Habits: Consuming a diet low in fibre and not drinking enough fluids can lead to constipation.
• Ignoring the Urge to Defecate: Regularly suppressing the urge to go to the toilet can make your body less responsive to the signals to defecate.
• Age and Pregnancy: Older adults and pregnant women are more prone to constipation due to changes in bodily functions and hormones.

Complications of Constipation

Chronic constipation can result in several health issues if left untreated. Some potential complications include:

• Haemorrhoids: Straining during bowel movements can cause the veins in the rectum and anus to swell, leading to painful haemorrhoids.
• Faecal Impaction: Severe constipation can cause a hard, dry mass of stool to become stuck in the rectum, causing discomfort and difficulty in passing stools.
• Rectal Prolapse: Chronic straining can cause the rectal wall to protrude through the anus, a condition known as rectal prolapse.
• Abdominal Pain and Bloating: The buildup of gas and stool in the intestines can lead to persistent abdominal discomfort and bloating.

Diagnosis and Tests for Constipation

If you are experiencing persistent constipation, your doctor may recommend various diagnostic tests to identify the underlying cause. These tests may include:

• A thorough review of your medical history and current symptoms
• Physical examination of your abdomen and rectum
• Blood, stool, and urine tests to check for underlying health conditions
• Endoscopic procedures, such as colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, to examine your colon and rectum
• Imaging tests, like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, to identify blockages or other issues in your lower digestive tract
• Colorectal transit studies to track the movement of stool through your colon
• Anorectal function tests to assess your rectal and anal function

These diagnostic tests help your doctor determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific condition.

Living With Constipation

Managing constipation often requires making lifestyle changes and seeking ongoing care from your doctor. Here are some key strategies to help you cope with constipation:

• Increase your fibre intake by consuming more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and ensure you stay well-hydrated
• Engage in regular physical activity to stimulate bowel movements
• Establish a regular bowel routine and avoid straining during defecation
• Practice stress management techniques, such as biofeedback training, to manage stress and pelvic floor muscles
• Work with your doctor to adjust medications that may worsen constipation and use prescribed treatments as needed

When to See a doctor

If you experience sudden changes in your bowel habits, severe constipation, blood in your stool, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or difficulty passing stools, it is crucial to consult your doctor promptly. These symptoms may indicate an underlying health condition that requires immediate attention. Early consultation with your doctor can help identify and address any serious issues, ensuring you receive appropriate care and treatment.

In summary, constipation is a prevalent digestive issue that can significantly impact your daily life and overall well-being. By understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and undergoing appropriate diagnostic tests, you can effectively manage your constipation. Making dietary and lifestyle changes, such as increasing your fibre intake, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity, can help alleviate your symptoms. However, if your constipation persists or worsens, it is essential to seek medical advice for personalised care and treatment.

FAQs

References

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513291/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6140151/
• https://www.gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085(20)30080-9/fulltext
• https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/10/8/1738
• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1590865813001163
• https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/10/3386