Constipation is a common digestive problem that affects people of all ages. It is usually defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week.

However, chronic constipation is a more severe form of constipation that lasts for several weeks or longer. Chronic constipation can cause discomfort, pain, and other complications if not treated promptly.

What is chronic constipation?

Chronic constipation is a digestive disorder that affects the normal functioning of the bowel.

It is a condition that lasts for weeks or longer, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including a poor diet, lack of exercise, and certain medications. Chronic constipation is characterized by difficulty in passing stools, incomplete bowel movements, and infrequent bowel movements. Other symptoms of chronic constipation may include abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea.

When should you see a doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms of chronic constipation, you should see a doctor as soon as possible:.

1. Severe abdominal pain

If you experience severe abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating, it could be a sign of a more serious condition than chronic constipation. Examples include appendicitis, diverticulitis, or an intestinal obstruction.

Therefore, it is advisable to see a doctor right away to rule out any of these conditions.

2. Blood in your stool

If you notice any blood in your stool, you should seek medical attention immediately. Blood in the stool may be a sign of rectal bleeding or colorectal cancer. Therefore, it is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible to get an accurate diagnosis.

3. Infrequent bowel movements

If you experience fewer than three bowel movements in a week, it could be a sign of chronic constipation. If this problem persists for several weeks or longer, you should see a doctor.

They can help you determine the underlying cause of your constipation and suggest appropriate treatment options.

4. Incomplete bowel movements

If you have difficulty passing stools or have incomplete bowel movements, it could be a sign of chronic constipation. In such cases, you should see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

They can help you determine the underlying cause of your constipation and suggest appropriate treatment options.

5. Changes in bowel habits

If you experience a sudden change in your bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, you should see a doctor. Changes in bowel habits could be a sign of a more severe condition, such as inflammatory bowel disease or colon cancer.

Therefore, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to rule out any of these conditions.

6. Straining during bowel movements

If you feel that you have to strain excessively during a bowel movement, it could be a sign of chronic constipation. Straining can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or other complications.

Therefore, you should see a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

7. Constipation accompanied by other symptoms

If you experience chronic constipation accompanied by other symptoms, such as weight loss, fatigue, or abdominal pain, you should see a doctor.

These symptoms could be a sign of a more severe condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or colon cancer. Therefore, it is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible to rule out any of these conditions.

8. Causes of chronic constipation

There are several possible causes of chronic constipation that require medical attention. These include:.

Obstruction: When something obstructs the bowel, it can cause constipation. This could be a tumor, growth, or other blockages that prevent stools from passing through the colon smoothly.
Neurological problems: When nerves in the gut are damaged, it can affect the function of the bowel. This could include conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or spinal cord injuries.
Hormonal problems: Hormonal changes can also affect the function of the bowel. This could include hypothyroidism, diabetes, or pregnancy.
Medications: Certain medications can cause constipation. These include opioids, antidepressants, or antihistamines.
Dietary issues: A poor diet that is lacking in fiber, fluids, or other nutrients can cause chronic constipation.
Lifestyle factors: Lack of exercise, stress, or travel can also contribute to chronic constipation.

Conclusion

Chronic constipation is a common digestive problem that requires prompt medical attention.

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should see a doctor as soon as possible to rule out any underlying conditions that may require treatment. Proper treatment can help alleviate the discomfort and prevent further complications associated with chronic constipation.