Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints in the United States, with nearly 42 million people experiencing it each year.

Although it can be an uncomfortable and inconvenient condition, most cases of constipation are not serious and can be managed with simple lifestyle changes. However, it’s important to know when your constipation may require medical attention. In this article, we’ll discuss how to tell if your constipation is serious and when to seek professional help.

What is Constipation?

Constipation is a condition where bowel movements are difficult, infrequent, or incomplete. Individuals normally have one bowel movement per day, but for some, it can be normal to have less frequent bowel movements.

If you have fewer than three bowel movements per week, you may be considered constipated. Some symptoms of constipation include:.

Difficulty passing stool
Hard and lumpy stools
Swollen abdomen
Feeling of incomplete bowel movement
Straining during bowel movement
Bloating

Common Causes of Constipation

Constipation is often a result of lifestyle factors, such as a diet low in fiber, dehydration, lack of exercise, and ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement. Other common causes include:.

Certain medications, such as antacids, pain relievers, and iron supplements
Hormonal imbalances
Pregnancy
Aging
Changes in routine or travel
Medical conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diabetes, and thyroid disorders.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Constipation

While constipation is generally not a cause for concern, there are certain situations where you should seek medical attention. Some signs and symptoms that your constipation may be a serious condition include:.

Blood in your stool
Severe abdominal pain
Vomiting
Unexplained weight loss
Difficulty swallowing
Rectal bleeding or fissures
Alternating diarrhea and constipation
Anemia
A family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Red Flags

If you have one or more of the following symptoms, seek medical attention right away:.

Rectal Bleeding
Sudden Change in Bowel Habits
Abdominal Pain and Cramping
Anemia
Unintentional Weight Loss

Tests to Diagnose Constipation

If you’re experiencing chronic constipation, your doctor may perform certain tests to determine the underlying cause. Some common tests include:.

Physical examination
X-rays
CT scans or MRI scans
Blood tests to check for anemia or thyroid problems
Sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy to examine the rectum and colon
Anorectal Manometry to check the strength and coordination of the anal sphincter muscles
Defecography to evaluate difficulties with bowel movements

Preventive Measures for Constipation

If you’re prone to constipation, here are a few preventive measures to help keep you regular:.

Drink plenty of water
Eat a diet high in fiber, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Avoid processed foods
Exercise regularly
Avoid long periods of sitting or lying down
Use the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge to have a bowel movement

Treatment Options for Constipation

If lifestyle changes are ineffective, your doctor may recommend medications or procedures to help relieve your constipation. Some common options include:.

Over-the-counter laxatives
Fiber supplements
Enemas or suppositories
Bowel training to retrain your bowels to pass stool regularly
Treatment for underlying medical conditions, such as thyroid or hormonal imbalances
Surgery (in rare cases)

Conclusion

Constipation is a common condition that can often be managed with simple lifestyle changes.

However, if you experience red flags such as rectal bleeding, sudden changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain and cramping, anemia, and unintentional weight loss, seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor can help determine the underlying cause of your constipation and offer an appropriate treatment plan.