Chronic Constipation: Causes, Solutions, and When to Seek Medical Help
Chronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide. While occasional constipation is usually harmless and can be smoothly managed, chronic constipation can significantly impact one’s quality of life and may indicate an underlying health problem.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the causes of chronic constipation, explore potential solutions, and discuss when it’s essential to seek medical help. Dr. Vikrant Kale, the best gastroenterologist in Pune, provides expert insights to help you understand and address this condition effectively.
What is chronic constipation?
- survives for 3 months or more
- disrupts a person’s life and day-to-day functioning
- does not resolve following a modification in diet or exercise
- only fixes with prescription medicines
What Are the Symptoms of Chronic Constipation?
- passing rarer than three stools a week
- Difficulty Passing Stool
- feeling that the rectum is not fully empty after a bowel motion
- needing help to empty the rectum, either by pushing on the abdomen or by inserting a finger to remove a lodged stool
- A feeling of obstruction or blockage in the rectum
- Rectal Bleeding
- Changes in Bowel Habits
- Persistent abdominal pain
What Causes Chronic Constipation?
- Dietary Factors: A diet low in fiber and fluids can contribute to constipation. Lack of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in the diet can slow down digestion and bowel movements.
- Dehydration: Low water intake can contribute to dry, hard stools, making bowel motions difficult.
- Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles can slow down bowel motions, leading to constipation.
- Medications: Certain medicines, such as opioids, antidepressants, and iron supplements, can cause constipation as a side effect.
- Medical Conditions: Chronic constipation may be a sign of underlying medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hypothyroidism, diabetes, or neurological conditions.
- Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression can affect gut motility and contribute to constipation.
- Ignoring the Urge: Stopping the urge to have a bowel movement can lead to constipation over time.
What are the solutions for Chronic Constipation?
Managing chronic constipation often involves a multifaceted approach. Dr. Vikrant Kale suggests the following strategies for managing and alleviating symptoms:
- Dietary Modifications: Eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can increase the amount of fiber in your diet, which will help to soften stools and promote regular bowel movements.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps maintain stools soft and promotes bowel movements.
- Exercise: Regular exercise can improve overall gut health and encourage bowel motions.
- Laxatives: Over-the-counter laxatives may be used for short-term relief, but they should not be relied upon for long-term management without medical care.
- Establish Regular Bathroom Habits: Try to establish a consistent routine for bowel movements by scheduling time for washroom breaks each day.
- Biofeedback Therapy: This method improves bowel function and reduces constipation by strengthening the pelvic floor muscles.
- Prescription Medications: In some cases, prescription medicines may be essential to manage chronic constipation, especially if it’s associated with an underlying medical condition.
When to Seek Medical Help?
Constipation is common and usually goes away on its own, but if it lasts for more than a few weeks or months, it may be ongoing and need medical care. It’s important to consult with a constipation specialist in Pune if you experience:
- Constipation that doesn’t improve with lifestyle modifications or over-the-counter medications
- Severe abdominal pain, bloating, or cramping
- Blood in stools or rectal bleeding.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Changes in bowel habits, specifically if accompanied by other signs such as diarrhea or constipation.
- People with a family history of colon cancer or other gastrointestinal conditions should undergo regular screening and consult a gastroenterologist if experiencing constipation.
Conclusion:
Chronic constipation can significantly affect one’s quality of life, but with the right approach, it’s often manageable. People can effectively manage chronic constipation and improve their overall gastrointestinal health by being aware of the causes, making lifestyle changes, and knowing when to seek medical attention.
If you’re experiencing persistent constipation or concerning signs, don’t hesitate to consult with Dr. Vikrant Kale for personalized guidance and treatment options. Managing constipation early can prevent complications and boost overall wellness.
