Constipation

Constipation  – Defined as fewer than three stools per week, though it varies by person. It happens when stool moves too slowly through the large intestine, causing the body to absorb too much water, making it hard and difficult to pass. Patients complain of infrequent bowel movements, hard/dry stools, difficulty passing stool (straining), or a feeling of incomplete emptying. Common symptoms include bloating, cramps, and pain, often relieved by a bowel movement. Constipation that lasts longer than 3 weeks, blood in stools, weight loss, pencil thin stools, constant abdominal pain or inability to pass gas are concerning and need to be evaluated further with a colonoscopy.

Common causes of constipation:

• Not eating enough fiber
• Sedentary life style or inactivity
• Medications – Pain medications, antispasmodic drugs, antidepressant drugs, Iron supplements, anticonvulsants, Hypertension medication (Calcium Channel Blockers)
• Pelvic Floor dysfunction

Following symptoms need urgent evaluation:

• No bowel movement for more than 3 weeks
• Abdominal pain
• Black stools
• Blood in stools
• Low blood count
• Weight loss