Travel-Related Constipation: Causes and Solutions - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Regarding returning to the country and constipation issues?

Hello, doctor.
Here's my situation: I traveled abroad two weeks ago and returned four days ago.
While I was overseas, I had bowel movements every day, but they were somewhat loose.
After a 12-hour flight back home (I didn't have a bowel movement on the plane), I became constipated! It wasn't until I took a laxative yesterday that I experienced some improvement.
I would like to ask: 1.
Most people experience constipation when traveling abroad and return to normal afterward.
Why did I have regular bowel movements while abroad but become constipated upon returning home? 2.
My constipation is not due to "not having a bowel movement," but rather I have stool that I can't pass, causing bloating in my abdomen and pressure in my rectum.
Should I drink more water or increase my dietary fiber intake? Is this an issue of gastrointestinal motility or is it due to hard stool? 3.
Can exercise help improve this situation? (It feels really uncomfortable to exercise with stool in my abdomen...)

Xiao Wang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/10

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Constipation is likely caused by changes in the living environment, and it usually improves on its own in the short term.
Increasing fiber intake and establishing a regular bathroom routine can help.
If necessary, the use of enemas can assist with bowel movements.

Reply Date: 2019/07/10

More Info

Travel-related constipation is a common issue that many people experience, often due to changes in routine, diet, and hydration levels while traveling. Your situation, where you experienced loose stools while abroad but developed constipation upon returning home, can be attributed to several factors.

1. Why did I have loose stools abroad but constipation upon returning?
When traveling, especially to different countries, your diet and hydration habits can change significantly. The food you consume may differ in fiber content, fat, and spices, which can affect bowel movements. Additionally, the stress of travel, changes in routine, and even the environment can impact your digestive system. The fact that you had loose stools while abroad suggests that your body was reacting to these changes, possibly due to different bacteria in the food or water, or even anxiety related to travel. Upon returning home, your body may have taken time to readjust to your regular diet and routine, leading to constipation. The long flight could also contribute to this, as prolonged sitting can slow down intestinal motility.

2. Should I drink more water or eat more fiber?
In your case, since you mentioned that you have stool but are unable to pass it, it is likely that your stool is hard and difficult to expel. This situation often arises from dehydration or insufficient dietary fiber. Therefore, it is essential to increase both water intake and dietary fiber. Drinking plenty of water helps soften the stool, making it easier to pass. Aim for at least 8-10 cups of water daily, and consider incorporating high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes into your diet. If your stool remains hard, you might also consider using a stool softener or a gentle laxative, but it's best to consult with a healthcare provider before doing so.

3. Can exercise help with constipation?
Yes, regular physical activity can significantly improve bowel function. Exercise stimulates the muscles in your intestines, promoting movement and helping to alleviate constipation. Even though it may feel uncomfortable to exercise when you are feeling bloated, gentle activities such as walking, stretching, or yoga can be beneficial. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. If you find that your symptoms persist despite these measures, it may be worth consulting a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

In summary, your travel-related constipation can be managed by increasing your water intake, consuming more fiber, and incorporating regular physical activity into your routine. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to seek medical advice to rule out any underlying conditions. Remember that everyone's digestive system is different, and what works for one person may not work for another, so it may take some time to find the right balance for your body.

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