Constipation is a common digestive issue that affects millions of people. It’s characterized by infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stool, or feeling like you haven’t completely emptied your bowels. While occasional constipation is usually nothing to worry about, chronic constipation can be a sign of an underlying health issue that requires medical attention. If you’re wondering whether you have constipation and when it’s time to see a doctor in Houston, this blog will help you understand the signs and what steps to take.

What is Constipation?

Constipation is defined by having fewer than three bowel movements per week. However, the experience of constipation can vary from person to person. Some people may still have a daily bowel movement but struggle with hard, dry stools or feel that they are straining excessively to pass stool. Common symptoms of constipation include:

• Fewer than three bowel movements per week
• Straining during bowel movements
• Hard or lumpy stools
• A feeling of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement
• A sensation of blockage in the rectum
• Needing to use manual maneuvers to help pass stool

Causes of Constipation

Constipation can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Diet: A diet low in fiber and high in processed foods can contribute to constipation. Fiber adds bulk to the stool and helps it pass through the intestines more easily.
• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration, which can make stool hard and difficult to pass.
• Lack of Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps stimulate the muscles in your intestines, promoting regular bowel movements.
• Medication: Certain medications, including painkillers, antidepressants, and antacids, can cause constipation as a side effect.
• Stress: Emotional stress can affect your digestive system and lead to constipation.
• Ignoring the Urge: Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can lead to constipation, as the stool becomes harder and more difficult to pass the longer it stays in the colon.

When Should You See a Doctor in Houston?

While constipation is often something you can manage at home with dietary changes and over-the-counter remedies, there are times when you should see a doctor. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s important to seek medical advice:

1. Persistent Constipation: If you’ve been constipated for more than three weeks, it’s time to see a doctor. Chronic constipation could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a bowel obstruction, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or colorectal cancer.
2. Severe Abdominal Pain: If you’re experiencing severe abdominal pain, bloating, or cramping along with constipation, it could indicate a blockage in your intestines or another serious issue that requires immediate medical attention.
3. Blood in Stool: Blood in your stool can be a sign of hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or more serious conditions like colorectal cancer. It’s important to get this checked out as soon as possible.
4. Unexplained Weight Loss: If you’ve been losing weight without trying and are also experiencing constipation, it could be a sign of an underlying health problem that needs to be addressed.
5. Changes in Bowel Habits: If you’ve noticed a sudden change in your bowel habits, such as alternating between constipation and diarrhea, it could be a sign of IBS or another digestive disorder.
6. Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea and vomiting, along with constipation, could indicate a bowel obstruction or another serious condition that requires prompt medical attention.

How to Relieve Constipation

If your constipation is mild and doesn’t require a doctor’s visit, there are several steps you can take to relieve it:

• Increase Fiber Intake: Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to increase your fiber intake. Fiber adds bulk to your stool and helps it pass more easily.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your stool soft and easier to pass.
• Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps stimulate bowel movements, so try to incorporate regular exercise into your routine.
• Don’t Ignore the Urge: When you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, don’t ignore it. Delaying can make constipation worse.
• Consider Over-the-Counter Remedies: If dietary and lifestyle changes aren’t enough, you might try an over-the-counter laxative or stool softener. However, these should be used sparingly and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Constipation is a common problem that most people experience at some point in their lives. While it’s often manageable with simple lifestyle changes, persistent or severe constipation should not be ignored. If you’re experiencing any of the warning signs mentioned above, it’s important to consult a doctor in Houston to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent more serious complications and get your digestive health back on track.