Digestive
Constipation
Common Symptoms
- Having fewer than three bowel movements a week
- Passing hard, dry, or lumpy stools
- Straining excessively during bowel movements
- Feeling as though you can't completely empty the stool from your rectum
- A sensation of a blockage in your rectum that prevents bowel movements
- Needing to use your hands to press on your abdomen or use a finger to remove stool
- Abdominal bloating or cramping
- Decreased appetite
Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history and a physical exam, which may include a digital rectal exam to check for blockages or muscle tone. Your doctor may recommend blood tests to look for systemic conditions like hypothyroidism. In some cases, imaging studies like an abdominal X-ray or procedures such as a colonoscopy may be used to inspect the colon. For complex cases, specialized tests like anorectal manometry can evaluate the function of the rectal and anal muscles.
Causes
Constipation occurs when waste or stool moves too slowly through the digestive tract or cannot be eliminated effectively from the rectum. This slow transit allows the colon to absorb too much water from the stool, making it hard and dry. Common causes include blockages in the colon or rectum, such as from tumors or strictures, and problems with the nerves that signal the colon and rectum to function. Functional constipation can also result from issues with the pelvic floor muscles, which are involved in having a bowel movement. This condition, known as dyssynergic defecation, involves poor coordination of these muscles. Additionally, hormonal imbalances, such as an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or diabetes, can disrupt normal bowel function.
Treatment Overview
Treatment for constipation often begins with diet and lifestyle changes to increase fiber, fluids, and exercise. If these are not sufficient, over-the-counter options like fiber supplements, stool softeners, or various types of laxatives may be considered. For chronic constipation, a doctor might prescribe medications that work by drawing water into the intestines or stimulating intestinal movement. In cases involving pelvic floor dysfunction, biofeedback therapy can help retrain the muscles used for defecation.
Prognosis & Outlook
The outlook for most people with constipation is very good. Acute cases often resolve quickly with simple lifestyle adjustments or short-term use of laxatives. Chronic constipation may require ongoing management, but symptoms can typically be controlled effectively with a combination of diet, exercise, and appropriate medical therapies, leading to an improved quality of life.
Types & Variants
Normal-Transit Constipation
The most common type, where stool moves through the colon at a normal rate, but patients perceive difficulty evacuating or have hard stools.
Slow-Transit Constipation
Characterized by reduced motor activity in the colon, leading to infrequent bowel movements.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Involves difficulty evacuating stool due to impaired coordination of the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles.
Journey insights for Constipation will appear here once contributor stories have been shared and analyzed.
Stories (0)
Real journeys shared by contributors
No published stories yet for this condition — yours could be the first.
Have a story about Constipation?
Your documented recovery could inspire thousands. Share your journey with proof and join our growing archive of recoveries.
Start Your Submission