Constipation: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Constipation is a common gastrointestinal problem characterized by infrequent or difficult bowel movements. It occurs when stool moves slowly through the colon, making it hard, dry, and difficult to pass. While occasional constipation is normal, chronic constipation requires evaluation and treatment.
Normally, food moves through the intestines, water is absorbed, and waste forms stool.
In constipation, excess water is absorbed, making the stool dry and compact.
This leads to:
Constipation can result from various lifestyle, dietary, medical, and medication factors.
Inadequate water consumption
Sedentary lifestyle or lack of exercise
Ignoring the urge to pass stools
Slows metabolism and bowel movement
Nerve dysfunction affecting gut motility
Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis
IBS-C (IBS with constipation)
Irregular motility & sensitivity
Hormonal and muscular changes
Antacids containing calcium/aluminum
Less than 3 bowel movements per week
Painful or strained defecation
Bloating and abdominal discomfort
Feeling of incomplete evacuation
Red flag symptoms needing urgent evaluation:
Slow transit, pelvic floor dysfunction, IBS-C
Due to medications, lifestyle or medical disease
Sudden onset — needs evaluation for obstruction
3+ months duration, requires long term management
Constipation is diagnosed clinically and by ruling out underlying causes.
Medical history and dietary assessment
Digital rectal exam if needed
Blood tests (thyroid, glucose, anemia)
Imaging/colonoscopy if red-flag signs are present
Transit studies or anorectal manometry in chronic cases
1️⃣ Dietary & Lifestyle Measures
Increase water intake (2–3 liters/day unless restricted)
Fiber-rich diet (25–35g/day)
Oats, fruits (apple/pear with skin), leafy veggies, legumes
Avoid processed foods & excess sugar
Regular exercise (20–30 mins/day)
Develop a routine: try bowel movement every morning
Psyllium, methylcellulose
Improves stool volume & softness
Polyethylene glycol (PEG), lactulose
Useful after surgery or postpartum
Increases gut motility (doctor-guided)
Medication use should be guided by a healthcare professional based on age, severity, and cause.
Biofeedback therapy for pelvic floor dysfunction
Botox injections for anal sphincter hypertonicity (rare cases)
Surgery (very rare; only for obstructions or severe refractory cases)
Diet Tips for Constipation
Whole grains, bran cereals
Fresh fruits & vegetables
Warm water in early morning
Probiotic-rich foods (curd/yogurt)
Warm water with lemon in the morning
Psyllium husk with a glass of water at night
Squatting posture or footstool during toilet use to ease passage
Complications if Untreated
Chronic abdominal pain & bloating
Symptoms last more than 3 weeks
Medication side effects suspected
Severe pain or bleeding occurs
Alarm signs (blood loss, weight loss, anemia)
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified physician or other licensed healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Do not ignore or delay seeking medical advice because of information you read on this website. The use of any information provided here is solely at your own risk.