Key Highlights: 

• Definition, symptoms, causes, and risk factors of constipation. 
• Identifying serious symptoms and chronic constipation complications. 
• Changes in diet, physical activity, bowel routine, OTC  medicines, prescribed medicines, and other methods. 
• Constipation in babies, infants, pregnant women, and old individuals. 
• Diagnosis and medical interventions include consultations, checks, diagnostic tests, and options for surgery. 

Introduction 

Everyone has suffered from constipation and the pain that comes from it. In this article, we will provide guidance on relieving and reducing the risk of developing pain due to constipation. We will shed light on different aspects of this condition, from its symptoms, causes and risk factors to the issues that are linked to constipation. We’ll help you understand when you should get medical help, what therapies are around, and ways to avoid constipation. We will then discuss how special groups like babies, infants, pregnant women, and the elderly are affected by constipation. Lastly, we will see how healthcare professionals take care of constipation through consultations, testing, and surgeries when necessary. 

Understanding Constipation 

In this section, we will give a brief on constipation, its symptoms, causes that may exist, and factors that put one at risk. By understanding these better, you may be able to prepare yourself to identify and deal with things related to constipation. 

1. Definition and Overview 

Constipation is a  common digestive issue. It is defined as infrequent or difficult bowel movements that cause pain. It happens when the stool moves too slowly through the colon. This results in hard, dry, and lumpy stool. Constipation can result in discomfort and greatly affects a person’s quality of life. 

2. Symptoms of Constipation 

Key symptoms of constipation include the following.  

• Less than three bowel movements every week. 
• Stools that are hard, dry, or lumpy. 
• Difficulty in passing stools. 
• A sensation that not all stool has come out. 
• Feeling of a blockage in the rectum. 
• Need to apply manual pressure, like pressing the abdomen, to pass stool. 

3. Possible Causes 

There are numerous factors leading to constipation. Some common causes are as follows.  

Lifestyle Causes 

• Not having enough fiber in the diet: Eating very less high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. 
• Not drinking enough: Not drinking enough fluids to soften stools.  
• No physical activity: Sitting all the time can slow down digestion and bowel movements. 
• Suppressing the urge to pass stools: Not heeding to bowel movements can result in stool hardening and difficulty in passing them. 

Medications and Supplements 

There might be certain medications and supplements that can cause or make constipation worse. These are as follows.  

• Antacids carrying calcium or aluminum 
• Antidepressants 
• Medicines blocking calcium channels 
• Supplements with Iron 
• Opioid analgesics 
• Diuretics 

Problems with Pelvic Floor Muscles 

One can face issues in passing stool thereby resulting in constipation if there are issues with pelvic floor muscles. This could be because of weakness, tightness, or a lack of coordination of these muscles. 

Blockages in the Colon or Rectum 

Blockages related to the colon or rectum may result from tissue damage or changes, tumours, or any other structural abnormality. These obstruct the passage of stool and can cause constipation. 

Other Factors 

There are numerous other factors like medical conditions (irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, hypothyroidism), psychological factors (stress and anxiety), and hormonal changes (especially during pregnancy) that can cause constipation. 

4. Risk Factors and Complications 

Some people might be at a higher risk of developing constipation. The following can increase your risk: 

• Age: Older adults often have slower digestion, resulting in higher chances of constipation. 
• Sex: Women, especially pregnant ones, have a higher risk of constipation. 
• Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to constipation because it hampers the normal contractions of the colon. 
• Low-fiber diet: Lack of high-fiber foods in the diet, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can lead to constipation. 
• Insufficient water intake: Dehydration can lead to stools becoming hard and difficult to pass. 

Long-lasting constipation untreated may result in complications like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, faecal impaction, and rectal prolapse. Dealing with constipation quickly helps avoid these potential issues. 

When to See a Doctor? 

In this section, we will look at when you need to get medical help for constipation. While many cases of constipation can be solved by self-care, knowing when you need proper medical help is important. 

1. Constipation and Emergencies 

Though constipation is usually a short-term issue that can be managed through lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medicines, some cases may ask for emergency medical attention. You need immediate medical care if you have any of these symptoms with constipation: 

• Severe or constant pain in the abdomen 
• Vomiting 
• Bloating 
• Blood in the stool 

2. Identifying Severe Symptoms 

While constipation does cause some abdominal pain, severe or constant pain could be due to a more serious condition. These conditions may require immediate medical attention. They could be a perforated intestine, blockage in the intestine, appendicitis, pancreatitis, or mesenteric ischemia (which is when blood flow to the intestine gets cut). 

3. Chronic Constipation Concerns 

If you have constipation for more than three weeks, find new or weird symptoms, or face trouble in doing everyday activities, it’s vital to go see a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your situation, rule out underlying causes, and provide suitable management or referral to a specialist if needed. 

Risk Reduction and Relief 

If you often get constipated, there are several methods you might find to help avoid and ease your symptoms. In this section, we will discuss different ways. These include changes in the diet, physical activity, and medical and alternate therapies.  

1. Dietary Modifications 

Changing what you eat might play a crucial role in managing and avoiding constipation.  

• Fiber Intake 

More fiber intake can significantly improve how your bowels function and relieve constipation. Try to have 25-38 grams of fiber each day. You can get fiber from sources such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Start slowly while increasing your fiber intake to avoid any gas or bloating. 

• Hydration 

Drinking enough fluids, especially water, can help soften stools and make them easier to pass. Aim for at least eight glasses of water each day. Or consult your healthcare professional for personalised recommendations based on age, sex, and how active you are. 

• Probiotics 

Probiotics help maintain a good balance of gut bacteria, which helps digestion and ease constipation. Include probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi in your diet. You can also consider taking a probiotic supplement under the guidance of your healthcare professional. 

2. Physical Activity 

Doing physical exercise regularly may help improve digestion and bowel function. Try to include at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, like walking, swimming, or cycling, in your daily routine. To get guidance on what exercises to do based on your health and fitness level, consult your healthcare  professional. 

3. Creating a Consistent Bowel Routine 

Creating and maintaining a regular bowel routine can train your body to have bowel movements at set times. Choose a time each day when you can relax and focus on having a bowel movement. You shouldn’t be rushed or distracted. It is usually best to do it in the morning or after a meal. 

4. Over-the-Counter Remedies 

 Various OTC remedies can be used for relief from constipation. These may be: 

• Supplements with fiber  
• Stool softeners  
• Laxatives that act as stimulants  
• Osmotic products 
• Lubricants 

Before using any OTC product for constipation, always consult your healthcare professional. Also, be sure to follow the label instructions. Never self-medicate.  

5. Prescription  Medicines 

In some cases, we may need prescription medicines for constipation. Some examples include: 

• Linaclotide: Helps in increasing fluid secretion and muscle contractions in the intestine, thus improving bowel movements. 
• Lubiprostone: Enhances fluid secretion, thereby softening stools and boosting bowel movements. 
• Plecanatide: Increases intestinal fluid secretion and muscle contractions, making bowel movements easier. 

For personalised recommendations and guidance on prescription medicines, consult your healthcare professional. 

6. Alternative and Natural  Management Options  

Besides regular therapies, some people get relief from constipation through other methods. Here are a few examples: 

• Herbal Supplements 

Herbal supplements can include senna, psyllium, and aloe vera. They may help in easing constipation for some people. Remember, it’s vital to check with your healthcare professional before using herbal remedies. These remedies can have side effects, or they may interact with other medications that you may be on. Make sure to always discuss with your doctor before taking it. 

• Acupuncture and Massage 

Some of us may find relief from constipation through acupuncture or massage therapy. 

• Biofeedback 

Biofeedback is a method that teaches people how to control various functions of their body. For instance, they can control muscle contractions in the pelvic floor. This method may help improve bowel movements. 

Constipation in Special Populations 

In this section, we will look at constipation in some specific groups. These groups are babies, infants, pregnant women, and old people. It’s important to know that constipation in these groups might look different and may need unique handling and management practices. 

1. Babies and Infants 

Babies and younger kids might get constipated. This is usually during times of weaning or potty training, or when they face any stress. This could be exacerbated, for instance, by starting school. In general, constipation in these young ones should be managed under the guidance of a paediatric healthcare professional. They can suggest suitable options for the child’s age and development. 

2. Pregnant Women 

Constipation is quite common for pregnant women. As many as 40% of pregnant women might get affected. Hormonal changes, physical changes in the uterus and intestines, and changes in diet can all cause constipation during pregnancy. If you’re pregnant and suffering from constipation, consult with your healthcare professional. They can guide you on safe and effective management options for constipation during your pregnancy. 

3. Elderly Individuals 

Elderly individuals face a higher risk of constipation due to changes in digestive function because of age, decreased physical activity, and increased usage of medications leading to constipation. For elderly people, the focus of managing constipation should be on lifestyle changes. These could include increasing dietary fiber, ensuring proper hydration and fluid intake, and regular physical activity. 

Diagnosis and Medical Interventions 

In this section of the article, we will discuss how healthcare professionals diagnose and medically manage constipation. This would include consultations, physical examinations, diagnostic tests, and surgical interventions. 

1. Consultations and Physical Examinations 

When diagnosing a patient with constipation, a healthcare professional will start by exploring the patient’s medical history. They will then conduct a physical examination. The examination could include checking for signs of dehydration, checking for abdominal pain or tenderness, and performing a rectal examination to check for the presence of hard stool. 

2. Diagnostic Tests 

The healthcare professional might order more diagnostic tests based on the patient’s medical history and physical examination. These tests will confirm the diagnosis of constipation. They would also help in identifying the underlying causes or rule out alternative diagnoses. These tests can be: 

• Tests to get images, such as abdominal X-rays or CT scans. 
• Endoscopic procedures, like colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy. 
• Bowel function tests, which assess the muscles and nerves responsible for bowel movements. 
• Various laboratory tests, including blood tests and urine tests, to look for any metabolic or hormonal disorders. 

3. Surgical Options 

In some cases, surgical intervention might be required for constipation. This could be due to structural abnormalities, blockages, tumours, or severe complications like faecal impaction or rectal prolapse. The surgical options for constipation would depend on what caused it and the patient’s overall health. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to figure out the suitable steps. 

Conclusion 

Experiencing pain from constipation can be very uncomfortable and frustrating. It can affect your overall well-being. This guide provides useful research-based insights to recognise, avoid, and manage constipation.  

Managing constipation usually involves critical lifestyle changes. These include increasing your intake of fiber, staying hydrated, and staying physically active. Usage of over-the-counter remedies, prescription medicines, as well as alternative therapies may also help individuals dealing with constipation. 

Keep in mind that you may have to consult a healthcare professional if your constipation is severe.  Constipation may be a symptom of some other potentially serious underlying condition. By knowing more about different aspects of constipation, you can make better choices about your digestive health. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

References: 

1. National Health Service (NHS). Constipation [Internet]. [cited 2024 Jun 20]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation 

2. National Health Service (NHS). How to get more fibre into your diet [Internet]. [cited 2024 Jun 20]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/digestive-health/how-to-get-more-fibre-into-your-diet 

3. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Effects of a proposed physical activity and diet control to manage constipation in middle-aged obese women – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Jun 20]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5734236 

4. National Health Service (NHS). Hirschsprung’s disease [Internet]. [cited 2024 Jun 20]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hirschsprungs-disease 

5. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Chronic constipation in infants and children – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Jun 20]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7052003 

6. National Health Service (NHS). Overview – Laxatives [Internet]. [cited 2024 Jun 20]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/laxatives 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.