Constipation That Won’t Quit: Causes, Safe Remedies, and When to See a GI Specialist

Constipation That Won’t Quit: Causes, Safe Remedies, and When to See a GI Specialist

Constipation is common, and an occasional bout usually isn’t a reason to worry. But if you’re regularly straining, having hard stools, or going several days without a bowel movement, there may be more going on. At Bergen Medical Associates, our board-certified gastroenterologists evaluate and treat a range of digestive concerns at locations throughout New Jersey. Here, we explain what can cause ongoing constipation, what you can safely try at home, and when it’s time to make an appointment.

Key Takeaways

• Constipation can mean having fewer bowel movements than usual, hard stools, straining, or feeling as though you haven’t fully emptied your bowel.
• Not getting enough fiber or fluids can cause constipation, but so can medications, stress, changes in routine, and certain health conditions.
• A doctor should evaluate new or ongoing constipation, especially if you also have blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, anemia, fever, or severe abdominal pain.
• Bergen Medical Associates provides comprehensive gastroenterology services at six locations in northern New Jersey.

What Is Constipation?

While most people think of constipation as having fewer bowel movements than normal, it’s more complicated than that. Constipation can mean difficulty going or straining to go, feeling like you haven’t emptied your bowel completely, or having hard, lumpy stools, even if you go regularly.

There are also different types of chronic constipation:

• Slow-transit constipation: Stool takes longer than normal to move through the colon.
• Pelvic floor disorder: The muscles involved in bowel movements may not relax and work together as they should.

Knowing what is causing your symptoms helps your gastroenterologist determine the right treatment.

What Causes Chronic Constipation?

Constipation usually has more than one contributing factor. The most common causes are:

• Low fiber intake
• Dehydration
• Sitting too much or not being active
• Ignoring the urge to go
• Travel, disrupted routines, or a change in sleep schedule
• High stress or anxiety
• Opioid pain medication
• Iron and calcium supplements
• Certain antidepressants, antacids, and anticholinergic drugs
• Some blood pressure medications and diuretics

Underlying medical conditions can also slow your gut motility. These include hypothyroidism, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and pelvic floor disorders.

What Are Safe At-Home Remedies?

If you have mild constipation, a few changes at home may be enough to get your stool moving again. We recommend making a few gradual changes instead of introducing everything at once:

• Adding more fiber: Adults need 25-38 grams of fiber per day. Most people get less than half that. Eat more fiber-based foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. You can also take fiber supplements like Metamucil or Citrucel. However, add fiber slowly to avoid bloating and gas.
• Drinking more water: Fiber needs water to work effectively. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day. Also, drinking warm liquids in the morning, like coffee, can help stimulate bowel activity.
• Moving more: Even a 20 to 30-minute walk per day can increase your gut motility and help your stool move more effectively through your bowels.

Sometimes lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough. If you’re still experiencing constipation, you can try over-the-counter laxatives, but always follow the recommended dosing instructions.

When Should You See a GI Specialist at Bergen Medical Associates?

If you’re using laxatives more than a few times per week or relying on them to have any bowel movement at all, it’s time to see a specialist. You should also book an appointment immediately if you notice:

• Blood in your stool or on the toilet paper
• Unintended weight loss alongside constipation
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping
• Signs of anemia, such as fatigue, pallor, or dizziness
• Fever with constipation
• A new onset of constipation with no clear cause, especially if you’re over 50
• A change in your bowel habits

These symptoms may signal an underlying digestive condition that requires further evaluation.

When you schedule an appointment with Bergen Medical Associates, your gastroenterologist will start by asking about your symptoms, medical history, medications, diet, and bowel habits. Depending on what they find, they may recommend bloodwork, a colonoscopy, or other imaging. They may also test your motility and pelvic floor to see how your stool moves through the colon. Once we understand what’s causing your constipation, we can develop a treatment plan that helps you develop healthier bowel habits.

Get to the Bottom of Your Constipation

Constipation is common, but you shouldn’t have to live with persistent symptoms. If changes to your diet, fluids, and activity levels aren’t helping, it’s time to find out what’s causing the problem. Bergen Medical Associates offers comprehensive gastroenterology care and diagnostic services at 6 locations throughout New Jersey. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to discuss your symptoms and find the right treatment for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chronic Constipation

How long is too long to go without a bowel movement?

Going more than a few days without a bowel movement, especially if you feel bloated, uncomfortable, or are straining, is too long. If it’s been more than a week or you’re in pain, contact a doctor.

Can I be constipated even if I have regular bowel movements?

Yes. Constipation isn’t only defined by frequency. You may still be constipated if your stools are hard, you frequently strain, or you have trouble completely emptying your bowels.

Can chronic constipation be a sign of another condition?

Yes. Constipation can sometimes be related to a gastrointestinal, thyroid, metabolic, or neurologic condition. New or persistent constipation is important to evaluate if you also have bleeding, weight loss, anemia, fever, or pain.

Is it safe to take laxatives regularly?

Over-the-counter laxatives are generally safe for daily use. However, you must always read and follow the dosing instructions. If you think need laxatives to have a bowel movement, talk to your doctor before trying a product.