Struggling with Severe Constipation: Causes and Solutions

Bowel movement issues

I have been experiencing severe constipation lately.
I eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and also take probiotics, but sometimes I only have a bowel movement once a week.
When I feel the urge to go, I sit on the toilet but can't seem to pass anything.
Sometimes I strain a lot, but only a little comes out.
I've tried using a stool to elevate my feet, but that hasn't helped either.
I'm currently trying traditional Chinese medicine, but it doesn't seem to be effective.
I'm worried that I might have to rely on glycerin suppositories to have a bowel movement.

Nìmíng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/06

Dr. Hu Guozheng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2023/05/06

More Info

Struggling with severe constipation can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. It sounds like you've been taking some positive steps by incorporating fruits and vegetables into your diet and supplementing with probiotics. However, the fact that you're experiencing such infrequent bowel movements and difficulty passing stool suggests that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Understanding Constipation
Constipation is generally defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week, and it can be accompanied by symptoms such as straining during bowel movements, hard or lumpy stools, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. There are several potential causes of constipation, including:
1. Dietary Factors: While you mentioned consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables, it's important to ensure that you're also getting enough fiber overall. The recommended daily intake of fiber is about 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men. Additionally, hydration plays a crucial role; insufficient fluid intake can lead to harder stools.

2. Physical Activity: Regular physical activity helps stimulate intestinal function. A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to constipation. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week.

3. Medications: Certain medications, including some pain relievers, antidepressants, and iron supplements, can cause constipation as a side effect. If you're taking any medications, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider.

4. Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and neurological disorders can affect bowel function. If your constipation persists despite dietary changes, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

5. Psychological Factors: Stress and anxiety can also impact bowel habits. If you're experiencing significant stress, it may be contributing to your constipation.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Increase Fiber Intake: Consider incorporating more high-fiber foods into your diet, such as whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and more fruits and vegetables. Gradually increase your fiber intake to avoid gas and bloating.

2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for at least 8-10 cups of fluids daily, and consider warm beverages, which can sometimes stimulate bowel movements.

3. Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, or yoga. Even simple activities like stretching or light exercises can help stimulate your digestive system.

4. Establish a Routine: Try to set a regular time each day to sit on the toilet, even if you don't feel the urge. This can help train your body to have more regular bowel movements.

5. Consider Probiotics: While you mentioned already taking probiotics, it may be worth trying different strains or formulations, as some may be more effective for constipation than others.

6. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Since you are already trying traditional Chinese medicine without noticeable effects, it may be beneficial to consult a gastroenterologist or a healthcare provider specializing in digestive health. They can perform tests to rule out any underlying conditions and may recommend treatments such as laxatives or other medications.

7. Avoid Over-reliance on Laxatives: While glycerin suppositories can provide temporary relief, relying on them can lead to dependency. It's essential to address the root cause of your constipation.

8. Mindfulness and Stress Management: If stress is a contributing factor, consider incorporating mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, into your routine.

Conclusion
Severe constipation can be a complex issue with various contributing factors. By addressing dietary habits, increasing physical activity, and consulting with healthcare professionals, you can work towards finding a solution that alleviates your symptoms. Remember, it's important to be patient, as changes in bowel habits can take time. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is crucial to ensure there are no underlying health concerns.

Similar Q&A

Struggling with Constipation: Effective Solutions and Tips

I have been experiencing chronic constipation for a long time and have tried many methods, including eating fruits and other remedies. However, nothing seems to improve my condition, and I am unsure what to do. Could you please provide a detailed explanation? Thank you!

Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Constipation can have many causes, including insufficient hydration, lack of physical activity, and low fiber intake. If improvements are made and constipation persists, consider conditions such as congenital megacolon, congenital intestinal neuropathy, or intestinal tumors. If t...

Dealing with Constipation: Tips for Gastrointestinal Health

I'm sorry, doctor. Currently, I can only sit while using the toilet, but since mid-June, I have been experiencing difficulty with bowel movements. I visited a colorectal surgeon who prescribed a laxative for me, but after taking it last night before bed, there was no improve...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Constipation requires identifying the underlying causes, such as excessive intake of greasy foods, insufficient hydration and fiber intake, hard stools, and difficulty in bowel movements. Inadequate physical activity can affect intestinal motility. Dysregulation of the autonomic ...

Understanding Constipation: Causes and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Health

Hello Doctor, I have been struggling with constipation for the past two months. My bowel movements occur approximately every three days, and they are usually hard and difficult to pass. In terms of diet, I have been eating very healthily during these two months, with a large amou...

Dr. Luo Yining reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
There are many factors that can trigger constipation, including insufficient intake of fiber and water, prolonged sitting, changes in environment, medication use, structural abnormalities of the colon, or endocrine disorders, among others. Any persistent changes in bowel habits, ...

Struggling with Severe Constipation: Seeking Solutions and Dietary Tips

Three years ago, I experienced autonomic nervous system dysfunction, which led to rapid heartbeat and severe constipation. I relied on laxatives and enemas until the laxatives became ineffective! Even the doctors are unsure of what to do! What should I do to achieve a complete cu...

Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
Chronic constipation is indeed a very frustrating issue. Based on your age, it is less likely to be caused by a disease and is more likely related to individual constitution. I recommend that you eat fruit on an empty stomach before breakfast every day, such as bananas or apples ...