Recognized every December, Chronic Constipation Awareness Month shines a light on a condition that affects countless people worldwide, yet is often misunderstood and minimized. While many may think of constipation as a minor problem, chronic constipation is far more than just an inconvenience; it’s a persistent, often painful condition, characterized by reduced stool frequency and painful bowel movements that can significantly impact one’s self-confidence and prevent them from fully engaging in personal and professional activities.
During Chronic Constipation Awareness Month, healthcare organizations and advocacy groups strive to raise awareness about this often-overlooked condition and its impact on the lives of those affected. They support research efforts and provide valuable resources for managing and understanding chronic constipation. Here, in honor of Chronic Constipation Awareness Month, we explore the symptoms and causes of chronic constipation, discuss treatment options, and provide ways to get involved in raising awareness. Understanding chronic constipation is the first step towards helping patients and their families effectively manage this challenging condition and supporting those who struggle with it every day.
What Is Chronic Constipation?
Chronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by infrequent or difficult-to-pass bowel movements that persist for weeks or even months. Unlike occasional constipation, chronic constipation involves symptoms that last at least three months and often include abdominal discomfort, a feeling of incomplete emptying, and the need to strain during bowel movements. For some, this condition can significantly interfere with their daily activities, affecting physical health, self-confidence, and social interactions.
Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Constipation
Signs and symptoms of chronic constipation may resemble other medical conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with constipation, so it is important to consult with a medical provider for a proper diagnosis. The main symptom that differentiates chronic constipation from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with constipation is abdominal pain, which is a more predominant symptom of IBS.
However, this symptom can still be present in those with chronic constipation. Common signs and symptoms of chronic constipation include:
- Infrequent Bowel Movements: Those with chronic constipation typically have fewer than three bowel movements per week.
- Straining: Chronic constipation may cause difficulty or pain when trying to pass stools.
- Hard, Lumpy Stools: Stools may be dry or hard, making them more difficult to pass.
- Feeling of Incomplete Emptying: Even after a bowel movement, those with chronic constipation may feel a lingering sensation of fullness.
- Abdominal Pain or Discomfort: Chronic constipation can lead to persistent stomach aches, discomfort, or bloating.
- Feeling Sluggish: Chronic constipation can make a person feel physically tired and slower than usual.
Why Chronic Constipation Awareness Month Is Important
Chronic constipation impacts from 9-20% of adults in the United States. Many individuals suffering from chronic constipation remain silent and don’t seek treatment due to embarrassment and shame because of the social stigma associated with the condition. That is one reason why raising awareness of the condition is essential. Awareness of chronic constipation can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. By raising awareness, individuals and organizations like the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) work to reduce the stigma and encourage those affected to seek support. Through open conversations and educational initiatives, Chronic Constipation Awareness Month aims to foster a better understanding of the disorder and highlight the resources available for effective diagnosis, treatment, management, and support.
Common Causes of Chronic Constipation
Chronic constipation may occur as the result of an underlying medical condition, or it may occur as a result of the colon absorbing too much water. As food moves through the colon, the colon normally absorbs water while forming a stool. As the stool is pushed out of the body, water is absorbed by the colon. When the colon’s muscle contractions are too slow, the stool moves through the colon too slowly, and the colon absorbs too much water, resulting in hard, dry stools.
Common factors that can contribute to chronic constipation include the following:
- Diet: A low-fiber diet or a diet high in dairy can slow down the digestive process, leading to infrequent bowel movements.
- Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle can impact gut motility. Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can also lead to constipation.
- Medications: Certain medications, including opioids, antidepressants, and antacids, can contribute to constipation. Abuse of laxatives is also implicated in chronic constipation.
- Underlying Health Conditions: Disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), thyroid disorders, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes are often associated with chronic constipation. Constipation can also be a symptom of lupus, fistulas in the digestive tract, rectal prolapse, colorectal cancer, intestinal obstruction, stroke, and multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Dehydration: Insufficient water intake can make stools hard and difficult to pass.
Diagnosing Chronic Constipation
If chronic constipation is suspected, healthcare providers may use a variety of diagnostic methods. They will likely begin by getting a full breakdown of your full medical history, including what you eat and drink, what your stool looks like, and how often you exercise. Your doctor may perform a physical examination to assess symptoms, listen to your abdomen, and check for abdominal pain, lumps, or bloating. They may also require a rectal exam to check for any noticeable problems.
A range of diagnostic tests may be ordered by your healthcare provider. These may include a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. These two procedures involve inserting a long, thin tube into the colon with a tiny camera attached at the end. Blood tests may be ordered to look for underlying conditions such as hypothyroidism and diabetes, and imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, may be performed to look for other problems that may be causing constipation. A bowel function test or colorectal transit study may also be conducted. This procedure allows the doctor to track how long a substance takes to move through your digestive system.
Treatment Options for Chronic Constipation
Treatment for chronic constipation varies based on what is causing it. When constipation is a symptom of an underlying condition, then the underlying condition will be treated. If there is no underlying condition causing the chronic constipation, your healthcare provider will likely recommend lifestyle changes. Over-the-counter medications are often used for treatment, including laxatives or fiber supplements that can help promote bowel regularity. For severe cases of constipation, doctors may prescribe medications that increase fluid in the intestines or stimulate bowel movements.
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes for Relief
Many people report that their symptoms are alleviated through dietary and lifestyle changes. Increasing fiber intake with foods high in fiber, like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can help soften stools and promote healthy bowel movements. Staying hydrated is also important. Drinking sufficient water aids digestion and can prevent hard stools. Regular exercise and physical activity help stimulate bowel movements and improve overall gut health, leading to improved symptoms. Establishing a routine can also be beneficial. Setting aside time each day for bowel movements can help train the digestive system to have regular bowel movements. While implementing dietary and lifestyle changes can be challenging, the increased quality of life that it brings is worth the effort. A healthcare provider can help you make a health plan that incorporates necessary changes to your diet and lifestyle.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
If constipation symptoms persist for more than a few weeks or are accompanied by severe pain, weight loss, or rectal bleeding, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider right away. Chronic constipation may indicate an underlying health condition that requires treatment, and early diagnosis and intervention can lead to improved outcomes and reduced complications. A healthcare professional can recommend appropriate treatments tailored to your condition. Contact a healthcare provider today to find out more about the diagnosis and treatment options available to you.
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Video Credit: You and Constipation
