Chronic constipation is characterized by infrequent, difficult, or incomplete bowel movements. This may mean having fewer than three bowel movements a week. It can also presents itself with straining during bowel movements, having hard stools, and the inability to pass stool.
The main difference between regular constipation and chronic constipation is that with chronic constipation, the symptoms of constipation happen frequently or continuously with considerable severity.
What Causes Chronic Constipation?
Chronic constipation can be caused by multiple factors. It may be due to structural lesions in the colon, such as those that happen in colon cancer and colon stricture or narrowing. Chronic constipation can also be caused by medical conditions like diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, thyroid disorders, or pregnancy. Sometimes it is a result of using certain medications, such as pain medications, blood pressure medications, anti-seizure medication, or antispasmodics.
More serious conditions, such as bowel disease or some kind of structural disorder, may also cause constipation, especially in patients over the age of 50, so it is best to speak to your doctor as soon as possible if you are experiencing any symptoms of chronic constipation.
Primary Chronic Constipation Symptoms
The following are the most prevalent symptoms of constipation: straining, hard stools, a sensation of incomplete evacuation, a sensation of anorectal blockage, the use of manual maneuvers to facilitate the evacuation of stool, and fewer than three bowel movements per week. If you are experiencing at least two of these symptoms, you may have chronic constipation. You should speak to your doctor. These symptoms must also occur at least 25% of the time.
The main symptom that differentiates functional constipation from constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome is abdominal pain. Abdominal pain is a more prominent symptom of constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome.
Talk to you doctor if you are feeling any severe discomfort. They will be able to properly diagnose your condition and place you on the most effective medications to help you deal with your condition.
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Posted on May 5, 2023