What are the Symptoms of Constipation?
September 6, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Constipation is a common digestive issue characterized by infrequent bowel movements and difficulty passing stools. Symptoms of constipation can vary in severity, and they may include:
- Infrequent Bowel Movements: The most obvious sign of constipation is having bowel movements less frequently than usual. For some people, this may mean passing stools three times a day, while for others, it could be as infrequent as three times a week.
- Difficulty Passing Stools: Constipation often involves straining to have a bowel movement. Passing hard, dry, or lumpy stools can be painful or uncomfortable.
- Incomplete Evacuation: Even after a bowel movement, individuals with constipation may feel like they haven’t fully emptied their bowels.
- Abdominal Discomfort: Constipation can cause abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating. The discomfort is often centered in the lower abdomen.
- Hard Stools: Stools in constipation are usually harder and drier than normal, which can make them painful to pass.
- Anal Fissures: The strain associated with constipation can lead to small tears in the lining of the anus, resulting in anal fissures, which can be painful and may cause bleeding during bowel movements.
- Rectal Prolapse: In severe cases of chronic constipation, a condition called rectal prolapse may occur, in which the rectum protrudes from the anus during a bowel movement.
- Hemorrhoids: Constipation can contribute to the development or worsening of hemorrhoids, which are swollen blood vessels in and around the rectum that can be painful and cause bleeding.
- Decreased Appetite: Some people with constipation may experience a reduced appetite, as the discomfort and fullness in the abdomen can make eating less appealing.
- General Discomfort: The overall feeling of discomfort and unease is common with constipation.
It’s important to note that constipation can be an acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) condition. Acute constipation is often related to dietary and lifestyle factors and can be managed with simple interventions like dietary changes, increased water intake, and regular physical activity. Chronic constipation may be due to underlying medical conditions, medications, or a structural issue with the digestive tract. In such cases, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Treatment for constipation may include dietary modifications (increased fiber intake), lifestyle changes, over-the-counter laxatives, prescription medications, and addressing any underlying causes or contributing factors. Managing constipation is important not only for relief from discomfort but also to prevent potential complications associated with chronic constipation.