Constipation is defined by infrequent bowel movements that often produce hard, dry stools. It generally occurs when bowel movements happen fewer than three times weekly. Multiple factors including dietary patterns, medication use, pregnancy, or routine changes can contribute to its development.
Constipation ranks among the most common digestive complaints in the United States, affecting about 16% of adults. This prevalence rises significantly among those aged 60 and older. To understand constipation’s symptoms, causes, and treatment approaches, continue reading.
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Symptoms | Causes | Relief and treatment | Prevention | Diagnosis | Takeaway
Constipation Symptoms
Bowel movement frequency varies among individuals – some may go several times daily while others only a few times weekly. However, these symptoms may indicate constipation:
- Fewer than three bowel movements weekly
- Passing lumpy, hard, or dry stools
- Straining or pain during bowel movements
- Persistent feeling of fullness after bowel movements
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) recommends medical consultation if symptoms persist or if you notice:
- Rectal bleeding
- Blood in stool
- Continuous abdominal pain
- Lower back pain
- Feeling of trapped gas
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Unexplained weight loss
- Sudden changes in bowel habits
Medical professionals may perform tests to exclude serious conditions like colorectal cancer or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Constipation Causes
The colon absorbs water from food waste as it moves through the digestive tract, forming stool. Colon muscles then push this waste toward the rectum for elimination. When stool remains in the colon too long, it hardens and becomes difficult to pass.
Poor dietary habits frequently cause constipation. Adequate fiber and fluid intake help maintain soft stools.
Plant-based fiber comes in soluble and insoluble forms. Soluble fiber dissolves in water, forming a gel that softens stool. Insoluble fiber adds bulk. Both types help stool pass more easily.
Other contributing factors include stress, routine changes, and conditions affecting colon muscle contractions or delaying bowel urges.
Common causes include:
- Low-fiber diets high in meat, dairy, or cheese
- Dehydration
- Insufficient physical activity
- Ignoring bowel urges
- Travel or routine disruptions
- Certain medications (some antacids, pain relievers, diuretics, Parkinson’s treatments)
- Pregnancy
- Aging (affects about one-third of people over 60)
Medical conditions that may cause constipation:
- Neurological disorders (stroke, Parkinson’s, diabetes)
- Colorectal issues (intestinal blockage, IBS, diverticulosis)
- Laxative overuse
- Hormonal imbalances (underactive thyroid)
Relief and treatment
Dietary adjustments and increased physical activity offer the simplest ways to treat and prevent constipation. Consider these approaches:
- Drink 1.5-2 quarts of water daily
- Limit dehydrating alcohol and caffeine
- Eat fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, prunes, bran)
- Reduce low-fiber foods (meat, dairy, cheese, processed foods)
- Exercise 150 minutes weekly (30 minutes daily, 5 days weekly)
- Respond promptly to bowel urges
- Consider bowel training (establishing regular bathroom times)
- Elevate knees during bowel movements
- Allow adequate bathroom time and relax muscles
- Use laxatives sparingly (only short-term under medical supervision)
- Review medications with your doctor
Over-the-counter Options
If lifestyle changes don’t help, doctors may recommend:
- Fiber supplements
- Osmotic agents (Milk of Magnesia)
- Stool softeners
- Lubricants (mineral oil)
- Stimulants
Prescription Medications
For chronic constipation, doctors may prescribe:
- Lubiprostone (increases intestinal fluid)
- Linaclotide or plecanatide (for chronic constipation/IBS)
- Prucalopride (stimulates colon movement)
Other Treatments
Additional options include:
- Biofeedback therapy
- Enemas
- Manual stool removal
- Surgery for blockages
- Chronic condition management
Prevention
While occasional constipation is normal, these strategies can help prevent it:
- High-Fiber Diet: Gradually increase fiber from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds
- Hydration: Drink at least eight glasses of water daily, limit caffeine/alcohol
- Regular Exercise: Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days
- Bathroom Routine: Establish consistent bowel movement times
- Proper Toilet Habits: Relax, use footstool, avoid straining
- Limit Processed Foods: Reduce refined sugars and carbohydrates
- Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques
- Respond to Urges: Don’t delay bowel movements
- Probiotics: Consider probiotic foods or supplements
- Medical Consultation: Seek help for persistent symptoms
Diagnosis
For persistent constipation, doctors typically:
- Review medical history and symptoms
- Perform physical and rectal exams
- Order blood tests (blood count, electrolytes, thyroid function)
Additional Tests May Include:
- Marker study (tracks food movement through colon)
- Anorectal manometry (assesses anal sphincter function)
- Barium enema X-ray (visualizes colon/rectum)
- Colonoscopy (examines colon with camera)
Takeaway
Key points about constipation:
- Recognize symptoms (infrequent stools, straining, discomfort)
- Understand causes (diet, inactivity, medications, medical conditions)
- Implement relief strategies (diet changes, exercise, proper hydration)
- Consult doctors for persistent issues
- Focus on prevention (fiber, fluids, exercise, routine)
By understanding constipation and taking proactive steps, you can maintain better digestive health. Consult healthcare providers for personalized advice.
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Symptoms | Causes | Relief and treatment | Prevention | Diagnosis | Takeaway