Constipation

Constipation

Constipation means having infrequent or difficult bowel movements. Stools may be hard, dry, or lumpy, and bowel movements may require straining. Constipation can also cause a feeling that you have not completely emptied your bowels.

What Causes Constipation?

Constipation can have many causes, including:

• A diet low in fiber
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not getting enough physical activity
• Certain medications
• Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
• Diabetes or thyroid conditions
• Nerve or muscle disorders
• Problems with the muscles used during a bowel movement

Sometimes constipation is related to how quickly stool moves through the digestive system or how the muscles work together during a bowel movement.

Signs and Symptoms

• Fewer than three bowel movements per week
• Hard, dry, or lumpy stools
• Straining during bowel movements
• Abdominal bloating or discomfort
• Feeling like you have not completely emptied your bowels
• Needing to use your hand or apply pressure to help pass stool

How Is Constipation Diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your bowel habits, diet, fluid intake, medications, and symptoms. A physical exam may also be performed. Most people do not need extensive testing unless there are symptoms that suggest another condition.

How Is Constipation Treated?

For many people, simple changes to daily habits can help improve constipation. These may include:

• Eat more fiber: Choose fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, and other high-fiber foods. Increase fiber gradually and drink plenty of fluids.
• Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated can help keep stool soft and easier to pass.
• Stay active: Regular exercise, such as walking, biking, or swimming, can help support healthy bowel movements.
• Make time to go: Set aside time each day to use the bathroom without rushing. Try not to ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.

If these changes are not enough, your doctor may recommend:

• Fiber supplements: Supplements such as psyllium can help add bulk and soften stool.
• Laxatives: Over-the-counter options such as MiraLAX (polyethylene glycol), magnesium-based products, or stimulant laxatives may help improve bowel movements.
• Prescription medications: Your doctor may prescribe medication if over-the-counter treatments are not effective.
• Additional testing: Tests may include a colonoscopy, studies to measure how quickly stool moves through the digestive system, or tests that evaluate the muscles used during bowel movements.
• Biofeedback: If the muscles used during a bowel movement are not working together properly, biofeedback may help retrain these muscles. Surgery is reserved for rare, severe cases.

When Should I Call My Doctor?

Talk with your doctor if you have an unexplained change in your bowel habits or constipation that does not improve. Contact your doctor if you experience:

• Blood in your stool or black stools
• Unexplained weight loss
• Ongoing abdominal or rectal pain
• Constipation that alternates with diarrhea
• Thin, pencil-like stools
• Tissue protruding from the rectum

New constipation accompanied by vomiting, a swollen abdomen, or an inability to pass gas may require immediate medical attention.

Related Resources

Learn more about colon cancer prevention, colonoscopy, and other digestive health conditions and treatments from MNGI Digestive Health.

If you have any additional questions, please contact our office at 612-871-1145