What are the common symptoms of constipation. How can diet and lifestyle changes help relieve constipation. When should you seek medical attention for constipation. What are the potential complications of chronic constipation. How do medications affect bowel movements.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Constipation

Constipation is a common digestive issue that affects millions of people worldwide. But how do you know if you’re truly constipated? Let’s explore the key symptoms:

• Infrequent bowel movements (fewer than three per week)
• Hard, dry, or lumpy stools
• Difficulty or pain when passing stools
• Feeling of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement
• Abdominal discomfort or bloating
• Straining during bowel movements

It’s important to note that “normal” bowel habits can vary from person to person. Some individuals may have three bowel movements a day, while others may only have three per week. The key is to recognize changes in your own patterns that persist over time.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While occasional constipation is usually not a cause for concern, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. These include:

• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Persistent abdominal pain
• Inability to pass gas
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Lower back pain
• Unexplained weight loss

If you experience any of these symptoms along with constipation, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Unraveling the Causes of Constipation

Constipation can have various underlying causes, often with multiple factors at play. Understanding these causes can help in developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Lifestyle and Dietary Factors

Many cases of constipation are related to lifestyle choices and dietary habits. Common culprits include:

• Insufficient fiber intake
• Inadequate hydration
• Lack of physical activity
• Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
• Changes in routine (e.g., travel, pregnancy)

How does fiber help prevent constipation? Dietary fiber adds bulk to the stool, making it easier to pass through the intestines. It also helps retain water in the stool, preventing it from becoming too hard and dry.

Medical Conditions and Medications

Certain health issues and medications can contribute to constipation:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Hypothyroidism
• Diabetes
• Neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis)
• Pelvic floor disorders
• Antacids containing aluminum or calcium
• Antidepressants
• Opioid pain medications
• Iron supplements

It’s essential to discuss any concerns about medication-induced constipation with your healthcare provider, as they may be able to adjust your treatment or recommend alternatives.

The Role of Diet in Managing Constipation

Dietary changes can significantly impact bowel function and help alleviate constipation. Let’s explore some key nutritional strategies:

Increasing Fiber Intake

Fiber is crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements. How much fiber do you need? The recommended daily intake is 25-30 grams for adults. Good sources of fiber include:

• Whole grains (e.g., oatmeal, brown rice, whole wheat bread)
• Fruits (e.g., apples, pears, berries)
• Vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, spinach)
• Legumes (e.g., lentils, beans, chickpeas)
• Nuts and seeds

When increasing fiber intake, it’s important to do so gradually to avoid gas and bloating. Also, remember to drink plenty of water to help the fiber work effectively.

Hydration and Its Impact on Digestion

Adequate hydration is essential for preventing constipation. Water helps soften the stool and promotes regular bowel movements. How much water should you drink? While individual needs vary, a general guideline is to aim for 8-10 cups (64-80 ounces) of fluid per day.

In addition to water, other hydrating options include:

• Herbal teas
• Clear broths
• Fruits and vegetables with high water content (e.g., watermelon, cucumber)

It’s worth noting that caffeinated and alcoholic beverages can have a dehydrating effect, so they should be consumed in moderation.

Lifestyle Modifications to Promote Regular Bowel Movements

Beyond diet, several lifestyle changes can help prevent and alleviate constipation:

Exercise and Physical Activity

Regular physical activity can stimulate bowel function and promote regularity. How does exercise help? It increases blood flow to the digestive tract and strengthens abdominal muscles, which can aid in the passage of stool.

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This can include:

• Brisk walking
• Swimming
• Cycling
• Yoga

Establishing a Regular Bathroom Routine

Setting aside time each day for a bowel movement can help train your body and promote regularity. Some tips for establishing a routine include:

• Try to use the bathroom at the same time each day, preferably after a meal
• Don’t rush or strain during bowel movements
• Use a footstool to elevate your feet while on the toilet, which can help align the colon for easier passage of stool

Remember, it’s important not to ignore the urge to have a bowel movement, as this can lead to harder stools and increased difficulty passing them.

Over-the-Counter and Prescription Treatments for Constipation

When lifestyle and dietary changes aren’t sufficient, various medications can help relieve constipation:

Bulk-Forming Laxatives

These supplements work by absorbing water and expanding in the intestines, creating larger, softer stools. Examples include:

• Psyllium (Metamucil)
• Methylcellulose (Citrucel)
• Polycarbophil (FiberCon)

How long do bulk-forming laxatives take to work? They typically produce effects within 12-72 hours.

Osmotic Laxatives

These medications draw water into the colon, softening stool and making it easier to pass. Common osmotic laxatives include:

• Polyethylene glycol (Miralax)
• Magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia)
• Lactulose

It’s important to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare provider before using these medications regularly.

Stimulant Laxatives

These work by increasing intestinal contractions to move stool through the colon. Examples include:

• Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
• Senna (Senokot)

While effective for occasional use, stimulant laxatives can be habit-forming and should not be used long-term without medical supervision.

Potential Complications of Chronic Constipation

If left untreated, chronic constipation can lead to several complications:

Hemorrhoids and Anal Fissures

Straining during bowel movements can cause the veins around the anus to swell, leading to hemorrhoids. It can also result in small tears in the anal tissue, known as anal fissures.

Fecal Impaction

In severe cases, hardened stool can become stuck in the rectum, leading to fecal impaction. This condition can cause significant discomfort and may require medical intervention to resolve.

Rectal Prolapse

Chronic straining can weaken the muscles supporting the rectum, potentially causing it to protrude from the anus. This condition, known as rectal prolapse, may require surgical correction.

Given these potential complications, it’s crucial to address chronic constipation and seek medical advice if symptoms persist despite self-care measures.

Natural Remedies and Alternative Therapies for Constipation Relief

In addition to conventional treatments, several natural remedies and alternative therapies may help alleviate constipation:

Herbal Supplements

Certain herbs have been traditionally used to promote bowel regularity:

• Aloe vera juice
• Slippery elm bark
• Cascara sagrada
• Triphala (an Ayurvedic herbal blend)

While these remedies may be effective for some individuals, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using herbal supplements, as they can interact with medications and may not be suitable for everyone.

Probiotics and Gut Health

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support digestive health. How do probiotics help with constipation? They can improve stool consistency and frequency by promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria.

Probiotic-rich foods include:

• Yogurt
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Kombucha

Probiotic supplements are also available, but it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate strain and dosage for your needs.

Abdominal Massage

Gentle abdominal massage can help stimulate bowel movements by promoting peristalsis, the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract. Here’s a simple technique to try:

1. Lie on your back with your knees bent
2. Place your hands on your lower right abdomen
3. Apply gentle pressure and make small circular motions, moving upward toward the ribcage
4. Continue across the upper abdomen and down the left side
5. Repeat for 10-15 minutes

This massage technique follows the natural path of the colon and can be particularly helpful when combined with deep breathing exercises.

Prevention Strategies for Long-Term Digestive Health

While treatment options are available, preventing constipation is always preferable. Here are some strategies to maintain long-term digestive health:

Mindful Eating Habits

Developing mindful eating habits can support digestive health and prevent constipation. Consider the following tips:

• Eat meals at regular times each day
• Chew food thoroughly to aid digestion
• Avoid eating large meals late at night
• Practice portion control to prevent overeating

How does mindful eating help prevent constipation? By promoting better digestion and reducing stress on the digestive system, mindful eating can help maintain regular bowel movements.

Stress Management Techniques

Chronic stress can negatively impact digestive function and contribute to constipation. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine can help maintain digestive health:

• Meditation or mindfulness practices
• Deep breathing exercises
• Regular exercise
• Adequate sleep
• Engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy

By managing stress effectively, you can help prevent digestive issues and promote overall well-being.

Regular Health Check-ups

Routine medical check-ups can help identify potential digestive issues early on. During these visits, be sure to discuss any changes in your bowel habits with your healthcare provider. They can help determine if further testing or treatment is necessary and provide personalized recommendations for maintaining digestive health.

Remember, while occasional constipation is common, chronic or severe symptoms should not be ignored. By implementing these prevention strategies and seeking medical advice when needed, you can maintain optimal digestive health and overall well-being.

Symptoms & Causes of Constipation

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What are the symptoms of constipation?

Symptoms of constipation may include

• fewer than three bowel movements a week
• stools that are hard, dry, or lumpy
• stools that are difficult or painful to pass
• a feeling that not all stool has passed

When should I see a doctor?

You should see a doctor if your symptoms do not go away with self-care or you have a family history of colon or rectal cancer.

You should see a doctor right away if you have constipation and any of the following symptoms

• bleeding from your rectum
• blood in your stool
• constant pain in your abdomen
• inability to pass gas
• vomiting
• fever
• lower back pain
• losing weight without trying

You should see a doctor right away if you have constipation and constant pain in your abdomen.

What causes constipation?

You may be constipated for many reasons, and constipation may have more than one cause at a time. Causes of constipation may include

• slow movement of stool through your colon
• delayed emptying of the colon from pelvic floor disorders, especially in women, and colon surgery
• functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome

Certain medicines and dietary supplements

Medicines and dietary supplements that can make constipation worse include

• antacids that contain aluminum and calcium
• anticholinergics and antispasmodics
• anticonvulsants—used to prevent seizures
• calcium channel blockers
• diuretics
• iron supplements
• medicines used to treat Parkinson’s disease
• narcotic pain medicines
• some medicines used to treat depression

Life changes or daily routine changes

Constipation can happen when your life or daily routine changes. For example, your bowel movements can change

• if you become pregnant
• as you get older
• when you travel
• when you ignore the urge to have a bowel movement
• if you change your medicines
• if you change how much and what you eat

Certain health and nutrition problems

Certain health and nutrition problems can cause constipation

• not eating enough fiber
• not drinking enough liquids, or dehydration
• not getting enough physical activity
• celiac disease
• disorders that affect your brain and spine, such as Parkinson’s disease
• spinal cord or brain injuries
• conditions that affect your metabolism, such as diabetes
• conditions that affect your hormones, such as hypothyroidism
• inflammation linked to diverticular disease or proctitis
• intestinal obstructions, including anorectal blockage and tumors
• anatomic problems of your digestive tract

Last Reviewed May 2018

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This content is provided as a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
(NIDDK), part of the National Institutes of Health. The NIDDK translates and disseminates research findings to increase knowledge and understanding about health and disease among patients, health professionals, and the public. Content produced by the NIDDK is carefully reviewed by NIDDK scientists and other experts.

Symptoms, Causes, Relief, and More

Constipation means having hard, dry bowel movements or passing stool fewer than three times a week. It can be caused by things like your diet, medications, whether you are pregnant, or just a change in your routine.

Constipation is one of the most common digestive problems in the United States. Around 16 out of 100 U.S. adults have constipation. This figure doubles for adults over age 60.

Read on to learn the symptoms and causes of constipation, and how it can be treated.

Each person’s bowel habits are different. Some people go three times a day, while others go three times a week.

However, you may be constipated if you experience the following symptoms:

• fewer than three bowel movements a week
• passing lumpy, hard, or dry stools
• straining or pain during bowel movements
• a feeling of fullness, even after having a bowel movement

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) recommends seeking medical advice if symptoms don’t go away or if you notice the following:

• bleeding from the rectum
• blood in your stool
• persistent abdominal pain
• pain in the lower back
• a feeling that gas is trapped
• vomiting
• fever
• unexplained weight loss
• a sudden change in bowel movements

A healthcare professional may carry out tests to rule out a more serious condition, such as colorectal cancer or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Your colon’s main job is to absorb water from residual food as it’s passing through your digestive system. It then creates stool (waste).

The colon’s muscles eventually propel the waste out through the rectum to be eliminated. If stool remains in the colon too long, it can become hard and difficult to pass.

Poor diet frequently causes constipation. Dietary fiber and adequate water intake are necessary to help keep stools soft.

Fiber-rich foods are usually plant-based. Fiber comes in soluble and insoluble forms. Soluble fiber can dissolve in water and creates a soft, gel-like material as it passes through the digestive system.

Insoluble fiber retains most of its structure as it goes through the digestive system. Both forms of fiber join with stool, increasing its weight and size while also softening it. This makes it easier to pass through the rectum.

Stress, changes in routine, and conditions that slow muscle contractions of the colon or delay your urge to go may also lead to constipation.

Common causes of constipation include:

• low fiber diet, particularly diets high in meat, milk, or cheese
• dehydration
• low exercise levels
• delaying the impulse to have a bowel movement
• travel or other changes in routine
• medications, including certain antacids, pain medications, diuretics, and some treatments for Parkinson’s disease
• pregnancy
• older age (constipation affects around one-third of people ages 60 and over)

Underlying health issues

The following underlying health conditions can bring on constipation:

• certain conditions, such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes
• problems with the colon or rectum, including intestinal obstruction, IBS, or diverticulosis
• overuse or misuse of laxatives
• hormonal problems, including an underactive thyroid gland

Changing your diet and increasing your physical activity level are the easiest and fastest ways to treat and prevent constipation.

You can try the following techniques as well:

• Every day, drink 1.5 to 2 quarts of unsweetened fluids, like water, to hydrate the body.
• Limit consumption of alcohol and caffeinated drinks, which cause dehydration.
• Add fiber-rich foods to your diet, such as raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, prunes, or bran cereal. Your daily intake of fiber should be between 20 and 35 grams.
• Cut down on low fiber foods, such as meat, milk, cheese, and processed foods.
• Aim for about 150 minutes of moderate exercise every week, with a goal of 30 minutes per day at least five times per week. Try walking, swimming, or biking.
• If you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, don’t delay. The longer you wait, the harder your stool can become.
• Ask your doctor about bowel training to get your body used to passing stool 15 to 45 minutes after breakfast each day.
• Raise your knees by putting your feet on a footstool when having a bowel movement.
• When using the bathroom, allow yourself plenty of time, and try to relax your muscles.
• Use laxatives sparingly. A healthcare professional may prescribe laxatives or enemas for a short period of time to help soften your stools. Never use laxatives for more than 2 weeks without talking with a healthcare professional. Your body can develop a dependence on them.
• Ask a healthcare professional if any of your medications might be causing constipation.

Over-the-counter medications

If home remedies do not work, a healthcare professional may recommend an over-the-counter laxative, such as:

• fiber supplements
• osmotic agents, such as Milk of Magnesia
• stool softeners
• lubricants, such as mineral oil
• stimulants

Prescription drugs

If you still have trouble with constipation, a healthcare professional may prescribe medications to help, such as:

• lubiprostone, which increases fluid levels in the intestine
• linaclotide or plecanatide, which can help make bowel movements more regular for people with long-term constipation or IBS
• prucalopride, which can help the colon move the stool along

A healthcare professional may also advise that you stop taking certain medications that may cause constipation.

Other options

Other strategies that may help are:

• biofeedback therapy, which can help a person retrain their muscles
• an enema
• a procedure to manually remove feces to provide relief
• surgery to remove a blockage
• long-term treatment for a chronic condition, such as IBS

Tips for preventing constipation are similar to those for relieving it.

Try the following:

• Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Eat high fiber foods and ask a healthcare professional about using fiber supplements.
• Include prunes or bran cereal in your diet.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can lead to dehydration.
• Get regular exercise.
• Consider adding probiotics to your diet, like those found in yogurt and kefir with live active cultures.
• Train your muscles to have a bowel movement at the same time each day.

Some studies have shown that adding probiotics can be helpful for people with chronic constipation. If you add fiber supplements, remember to drink plenty of fluids. Fluids help fiber work more efficiently.

If constipation persists, or if you have concerns about your symptoms, it may be time to see a healthcare professional.

A healthcare professional:

• will ask questions about your symptoms, medical history, and any medications or underlying conditions
• may carry out a physical examination, including a rectal exam
• may do some blood tests to check your blood count, electrolytes, and thyroid function

They may recommend additional tests to identify the cause of your symptoms. Tests may include the following:

Marker study

A marker study, also called a colorectal transit study, is used to test how food is moving through your colon. For this test, you’ll swallow a pill that contains tiny markers that will show up on an X-ray.

Numerous abdominal X-rays will be taken over the next few days so the healthcare professional can visualize how the food is moving through your colon and how well your intestinal muscles are working.

You may also be asked to eat a diet high in fiber during the test.

Anorectal manometry

An anorectal manometry is a test used to evaluate anal sphincter muscle function. For this test, a healthcare professional will insert a thin tube with a balloon tip into your anus.

When the tube is inside, they will inflate the balloon and slowly pull it out. This test allows them to measure your anal sphincter’s muscle strength and see whether your muscles are contracting properly.

Barium enema X-ray

A barium enema X-ray is a type of test used to examine the colon. For this test, you’ll drink a special liquid the night before the test to clean out the bowel.

The actual test involves the insertion of a dye called barium into your rectum, using a lubricated tube. The barium highlights the rectum and colon area. This allows the healthcare professional to better view these areas on an X-ray.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is another type of test healthcare professionals use to examine the colon. In this test, a healthcare professional will examine your colon using a colonoscope. This is a tube fitted with a camera and light source.

A sedative and pain medication is often given, so you’ll likely not even remember the examination and should feel no pain.

To prepare for this test, you’ll be on a liquid-only diet for 1 to 3 days. You may have to take a laxative or enema the night before the test to clean out the bowel.

Constipation is a common problem that affects people as they get older, when they use certain medications, or if they don’t have much fiber in their diet.

Most cases of constipation are mild and easily treated with changes in diet and exercise.

If you’re experiencing chronic constipation or constipation along with other bowel changes, it’s important that you talk with a healthcare professional.

Constipation – symptoms, causes, signs, diagnosis and treatment in “SM-Clinic”

This disease is treated by Gastroenterologist
, Proctologist

• What is constipation?
• Symptoms of constipation
• Causes of constipation
• Diagnosis of constipation in “SM-Clinic”
• Treatment of constipation in the “SM-Clinic”
• Prevention of constipation
• Doctors

Constipation is a short-term or permanent violation of bowel movements, in which it is impossible to completely empty the bowels. Situational constipation, triggered by stress or side effects of drugs, is not a pathology. The criterion for the disease is the absence of stool within 48-72 hours. In this case, the patient may complain of a strong urge to defecate, abdominal pain and general malaise. Strong straining does not lead to relief or is accompanied by the release of hard round stools without complete emptying of the intestine. Possible complications of constipation include anal fissure, intoxication of the body and the formation of hemorrhoids.

Constipation is one of the most common diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Many doctors call constipation a symptom, however, in the international classification of diseases, this condition is designated as an independent pathology (code K59.0). In most cases, constipation affects the elderly. Treatment of constipation should primarily focus on improving nutrition. If necessary, medical therapy is applied.

Symptoms of constipation

Symptoms of constipation depend on the cause of this condition. The absence of a chair can be observed for three days in a row or occur intermittently. The accumulation of stool in the large intestine is accompanied by increased absorption of fluid, hardening of the stool and the penetration of toxins into the bloodstream. Hard stool damages the intestinal mucosa, and harmful substances adversely affect the patient’s well-being.

Other symptoms and signs:

• Feeling of heaviness in the abdomen;
• Passing stools in the form of hard black or dark brown balls;
• Paroxysmal pain in the abdomen;
• Strong irresolvable urge to defecate;
• Requires constant straining to empty the bowels;
• Passing a lot of mucus along with hard stools;
• Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowels;
• Bloating
• Lack of appetite;
• Constant belching;
• Weakness and fatigue;
• Sleep disturbance.

Delayed stool adversely affects the intestinal microflora, so patients complain of increased gas formation. A sign of damage to the intestinal mucosa by hard stools may be the release of blood with feces.

Causes of constipation

The activity of the gastrointestinal tract directly depends on the lifestyle of a person. For the formation of normal stools and bowel movements, the intestines need a sufficient amount of fiber. This substance is found in many fruits and vegetables. A monotonous diet can be accompanied by chronic constipation and the formation of hard stools. Other risk factors for constipation include physical inactivity, chronic stress, sleep disturbance, and insufficient water intake. In some cases, constipation occurs even with a healthy lifestyle against the background of a pathological condition.

Other causes:

• Irritable bowel syndrome. This disease is characterized by dysfunction of the intestine. The patient may complain of intermittent constipation followed by diarrhea;
• Intestinal obstruction with the growth of tumors, the penetration of foreign bodies into the organ, parasitic infection, adhesions or other pathological conditions;
• Disturbance of intestinal motility. The movement of feces in the intestines is provided by wave-like contractions of the muscle tissues of the organ. Violation of the rhythm of the intestinal muscles can lead to constipation;
• Diseases of the nervous system. Intestinal functions depend on nervous regulation, therefore, pathologies of the spinal cord and peripheral nerves can cause defecation disorders;
• Unfavorable mental state, accompanied by anxiety and severe stress.

The effectiveness of the treatment of constipation depends on the successful identification of the cause of this condition.

Get advice

If you experience these symptoms, we recommend that you make an appointment with your doctor. Timely consultation will prevent negative consequences for your health.

You can find out more about the disease, prices for treatment and sign up for a consultation with a specialist by phone:

+7 (495) 292-39-72

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Why SM-Clinic?

1

Treatment is carried out in accordance with clinical guidelines

2

Comprehensive assessment of the nature of the disease and treatment prognosis

3

Modern diagnostic equipment and own laboratory

4

High level of service and balanced pricing policy

Diagnosis of constipation in “SM-Clinic”

With a constant violation of bowel movements, it is necessary to make an appointment with a proctologist. The doctor of our clinic conducts a consultation, during which he asks the patient in detail about complaints and studies the anamnesis. It is important for the doctor to determine how often the patient has stool retention. In addition, the proctologist needs to exclude the presence of intestinal obstruction, which requires urgent treatment. Severe bloating and the absence of gases indicate bowel obstruction. Additional examinations can clarify the diagnosis and identify the cause of constipation.

Applied diagnostic methods in “SM-Clinic”:

• Irrigoscopy is a method of X-ray examination of the colon. The doctor injects a contrast solution into the patient’s intestines using an enema. Then an x-ray examination is performed, during which the specialist sees a change in the shape of the intestine and the extensibility of its walls in real time. Getting several pictures in different positions allows the doctor to clarify the cause of constipation and exclude the presence of intestinal obstruction;
• Endoscopic examination of the large intestine (colonoscopy). The doctor inserts a flexible tube equipped with a camera and a light source into the patient’s rectum. During the study, the specialist studies the features of the contents of the intestine and the state of the mucous membrane of the organ, looking at the monitor. During the procedure, if necessary, a painless sampling of cells of the mucous membrane of the organ is performed for histological examination of the material in the laboratory. To eliminate discomfort, colonoscopy is performed under anesthesia;
• anorectal manometry. The proctologist appoints this study to assess the tone of the muscles of the intestine and the strength of the contraction of the sphincters of the rectum. A flexible tube is inserted into the intestine, after which the specialist fills the balloon at the end of the tube with air. The results of the study make it possible to detect the pathology of the muscles of the organ;
• Study of the defecation process using magnetic resonance imaging (defecography). This is the most highly informative method for diagnosing chronic constipation, allowing the doctor to evaluate the work of the pelvic floor muscles and the defecation process in general. Obtaining a three-dimensional image of the pelvic organs is carried out using a special apparatus. The doctor asks the patient to remove all metal jewelry and lie down on the tomography table. Before the study, a contrast agent is injected into the intestine using an enema. After removing the contrast from the intestine, a second scan is performed with functional tests, such as straining or relaxing the pelvic muscles;
• Blood test. In the treatment room, the nurse takes a small amount of blood from the patient’s vein and sends the material to the laboratory. Based on the results of a blood test, thyroid dysfunction and other causes of constipation are excluded. Own laboratory “SM-Clinic” allows you to conduct this study quickly and get reliable results.

The proctologist himself determines what examinations are necessary for the patient. In most cases, the diagnosis of constipation is limited to a few procedures.

Treatment of constipation in the SM-Clinic

According to the results of the diagnosis, the doctors of our clinic select a treatment plan for constipation. The prescribed therapy eliminates the cause of the pathology and normalizes the activity of the intestine. The gastroenterologist necessarily prescribes a special diet for the patient to restore intestinal motility and form a stool of the correct consistency. If a mechanical obstruction or other dangerous pathology is detected, emergency treatment is carried out.

Methods of constipation treatment in “SM-Clinic”:

• Prescription of drugs containing dietary fiber. The gastroenterologist prescribes the patient metamucil or another agent that normalizes the formation of stool and facilitates defecation;
• The use of drugs that improve intestinal motility. The doctor prescribes a short course of bisacodyl or another agent to the patient;
• The use of osmotic laxatives that eliminate excessive absorption of water by the walls of the intestine. It is lactulose, magnesium hydroxide or magnesium citrate;
• Use of stool softeners. The doctor prescribes docusate sodium or another drug that reduces the absorption of water in the large intestine to the patient;
• Use of enemas and anal suppositories. The proctologist explains how to properly perform bowel lavage at home. The doctor also prescribes suppositories based on glycerin or bisacodyl to facilitate bowel movements.

Our proctologists treat chronic constipation in a patient without long-term use of laxatives that negatively affect bowel function. The main task is to improve nutrition and eliminate negative factors from the daily life of the patient. The doctor controls all stages of treatment and achieves optimal results.

Prevention of constipation

A healthy lifestyle will help a person avoid developing constipation or other bowel problems.

Basic prevention methods:

• Eating enough foods containing dietary fiber and fats;
• Consumption of at least 2 liters of fluid per day;
• moderate physical activity;
• Eliminate stressors.

Our clinic’s gastroenterologists provide consultations to explain disease prevention methods.

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intestinal candidiasis
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pancreatic cyst
intestinal colic
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Diseases referred to Proctologist

Anal fissure
anal fringes
Crohn’s disease
Pain in the anus
rectal prolapse
Haemorrhoids
warts
coccygeal passage
Blood in stool
paraproctitis
Proctitis
Rectovaginal fistula
Fistula of the rectum
Chronic pelvic pain syndrome
Encoprese
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causes, symptoms and treatment

Causes of constipation in adults

In most cases, constipation is considered chronic if it lasts more than three months. There are primary (its appearance is mainly associated with a violation of the motor function of the intestine) and secondary constipation (may occur against the background of other diseases, structural changes in the intestine, taking certain medications, due to nutrition and behavior) ³ .

Bowel disease

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Constipation is often observed in the clinical picture of such a disorder of the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract as irritable bowel syndrome. In addition, in the presence of anal fissures and hemorrhoids, there may also be a delay in defecation and aggravation of chronic constipation due to pain during defecation ² . It is worth noting that the combination of chronic constipation with hemorrhoids is especially common among the elderly ¹ .

Medications

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When taking medication, you need to keep in mind that some of them can cause a slowdown in peristalsis and reduce the tone of the intestinal muscles. This is especially true for patients with comorbidities and for elderly patients who are forced to take several drugs ^1.6 .

The most commonly used drugs that can increase the tendency to constipation are diuretics, drugs for the treatment of arterial hypertension and arrhythmias, antibiotics, tranquilizers, anticonvulsants, antidepressants. If the prescription of such drugs is necessary, preventive measures should be taken in advance ^1.6 .

Extraintestinal pathology

The development of constipation can be caused by a decrease in the level of thyroid hormones (hypothyroidism), in addition, stool retention can often occur with diabetes mellitus, menopause, after childbirth. Violation of the process of bowel movement may accompany some neurological pathologies: multiple sclerosis, diseases of the brain, brain stem and spinal cord ⁸ .

Deficiency in the diet of coarse fiber and lack of physical activity

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Water and electrolytes are reabsorbed in the large intestine. Dehydrated stools become hard and hard to pass. If there are enough indigestible plant fibers in the diet, they are able to retain in the feces the amount of water necessary for normal movement through the intestine ^1.4.5 .

In addition, fiber is found in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and can increase stool volume, thereby activating intestinal motility. Moreover, intestinal bacteria, breaking down cellulose and hemicellulose in their composition, also produce substances that can affect intestinal motility ⁴ . Thus, the lack of herbal ingredients in the menu can make it difficult to move feces.

Intestinal peristalsis is also enhanced by physical activity (walking, exercising, sports training) ^4.5 . To prevent constipation, it is especially important to consider both factors.

Psychogenic factors

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Defecation is a partially controlled process. The habit of delaying bowel movements (mainly in children) can cause the bowel to stretch and the urge to defecate subsides over time ⁷ . Constipation can be promoted by depression, nervous strain, fears, change of habitual environment ^5.6 . Psychological discomfort is able to knock down the usual mode of defecation, the process of bowel movement is difficult.

Complications

One of the complications of constipation is fecal hardening ( coprostasis ) ⁹ . Fecal plugs can injure the walls of the anal canal, block the passage of stool and cause intestinal obstruction ^9.10 . It happens that stool seeps around the plug, causing “paradoxical diarrhea” ⁹ .

What to do with prolonged constipation

To determine the cause of constipation and choose the right treatment, you need to consult a doctor. During a medical survey, you need to report how often defecation occurs, what is the nature of the feces, whether you have to strain or mechanically press on the perineum, whether there is a feeling of incomplete emptying. It is necessary to tell about the existing chronic diseases and medications taken, including information about self-use of laxatives ^1.3 .

In addition to describing the symptoms of constipation, it is important to mention signs that are characteristic of other diseases. This will allow you to correctly establish the diagnosis and prescribe timely adequate treatment.