Constipation

Constipation happens when bowel movements are infrequent or challenging to pass. It's a common condition that affects people of all ages, but it can be especially bothersome in older adults. While occasional constipation is normal, ongoing symptoms can affect quality of life and signal a more serious problem.

Constipation is defined by having fewer than three bowel movements per week. Stools may also be dry, hard or lumpy, and some people may feel like they haven’t completely emptied their bowels.

What Causes Constipation?

Constipation can happen for many reasons. Common causes include:

• Not enough fiber in the diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
• Dehydration or not drinking enough fluids
• Lack of physical activity
• Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
• Changes in routine (like travel or pregnancy)
• Medications, including painkillers, antacids and antidepressants
• Health conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  
  

Some people experience chronic constipation, meaning symptoms last for several weeks or longer. This may be due to problems with the muscles in the colon or pelvic floor or nerve issues that affect digestion.

Symptoms of Constipation

The main symptoms of constipation include:

• Fewer than three bowel movements per week
• Hard, dry or lumpy stools
• Straining to go
• Feeling like you haven’t completely emptied
• Belly bloating or discomfort
  
  

Common Side Effects of Constipation

In addition to discomfort, constipation can lead to other health issues, especially if left untreated. These may include:

• Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the rectum or anus caused by straining during bowel movements.
• Anal fissures: Small splits in the tissue surrounding the anus, often resulting in pain and occasional bleeding.
• Fecal impaction: A hard mass of stool that becomes stuck in the colon or rectum, requiring medical treatment.
• Rectal prolapse: A rare condition where part of the rectum slips outside the anus due to long-term straining.
  
  

Constipation danger signs include sudden changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, severe abdominal pain or unintentional weight loss. These symptoms should be checked by a primary care provider.

Your health care provider may perform a physical exam, discuss symptoms and recommend tests to diagnose constipation, such as:

• Blood tests (to check for underlying conditions)
• X-rays or colonoscopy
• Special tests to measure how well your colon and rectum are working

Treatment Options for Constipation

Most constipation can be treated at home with simple changes:

Diet and lifestyle changes

• Eat more fiber-rich foods (like beans, fruits and vegetables)
• Drink plenty of water every day
• Exercise regularly
• Don’t ignore the urge to go
  
  

Laxatives and stool softeners

• Over-the-counter laxatives can help, but they should be used carefully and not for long periods unless directed by a health care provider.
  
  

Prescription treatments

• If other methods don’t work, your provider may recommend medications that help your intestines move stool more easily.
  
  

Medical procedures

• In rare cases, treatments like biofeedback therapy or surgery may be needed for chronic or severe constipation.

If you are dealing with constipation that won’t go away, or you notice constipation danger signs, talk to a health care provider. Simple changes can often help you feel better, but ongoing issues may need medical attention.

To prevent constipation in the future:

• Eat a high-fiber diet
• Stay hydrated
• Get regular exercise
• Go to the bathroom when you feel the urge
  
  

Understanding what causes constipation and how to treat it can help you stay healthy and comfortable.

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