Constipation Q & A
What is constipation?
Constipation is an uncomfortable condition in which you have infrequent bowel movements. Some of the most common issues associated with constipation include:
- Fewer than three bowel movements weekly
- Hard, painful stools
- Straining to pass stools
- Feeling like you have a blocked rectum
- Struggling to empty your bowels completely
Sometimes, constipation sufferers also have to push down on their belly or use a finger to pull a stool out of their rectum. If you’re dealing with at least two of these symptoms for three months or longer, it’s called chronic constipation.
What causes constipation?
There are dozens of possible causes, with some of the most common being:
Functional gastrointestinal disorders
Functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, can cause constipation, diarrhea, or both.
Pelvic floor disorders
Pelvic floor disorders like pelvic organ prolapse or fecal incontinence can cause your stool to move so slowly that it causes constipation.
Nutrition problems
Nutritional deficiencies that can cause constipation include insufficient fiber and dehydration.
Many other conditions and issues can cause constipation, including any condition that affects your gastrointestinal tract, metabolism, hormones, or spine. Colon cancer is another possible cause of constipation.
When do I need to see the doctor for constipation?
Occasional bouts of constipation usually resolve on their own. But, if you’re dealing with constipation for more than a few weeks, it’s time to reach out for relief.