Constipation - Treatments, Causes, Symptoms, Home Remedies & More

Constipation Diagnosis

Diagnosis from your Medcare health professional will involve a discussion of your symptoms, your lifestyle, diet, activity levels & any one or more of the following possible examinations:

• A general physical examination.
• A digital rectal exam.
• Blood tests – to look for certain conditions such as an underactive thyroid or high calcium levels.
• An x-ray – can determine whether intestines are blocked & whether feces is present in the colon.
• Sigmoidoscopy – an examination of the lower, (sigmoid) colon, performed by insertion of a lighted, flexible tube into the anus.
• Colonoscopy - this examination of the entire colon is undertaken with a flexible, camera-equipped tube.
• Anorectal manometry – is an examination of anal sphincter muscle function, using a narrow, flexible tube in the anus & rectum, & inflation of a small balloon at the tube’s tip.
• Balloon expulsion test – a test to examine how fast you expel a water-filled balloon, often undertaken in conjunction with anorectal manometry.
• Colonic transit study – an extensive analysis of how food moves through the colon, by following the progress of a capsule through your system over 24 or 48 hours, via x-rays.
• Defecography - an x-ray taken of the rectum during defecation of barium paste.
• MRI defecography - this procedure, similarly to defecography, involves a doctor inserting contrast gel into the rectum, which is then passed & recorded.

Constipation Treatment

Constipation often resolves itself without the need for prescription treatment, but do not hesitate to contact Medcare should you be in pain or worried.

Constipation treatments that can be employed readily include:

• Lifestyle changes, such as more exercise, eating more fiber & drinking more water.
• Making time to defecate, without interruption.
• Paying attention & responding to the urge to have a bowel movement.
• Laxatives can improve symptoms, short-term, but use with care & only when necessary. Some laxatives can have severe adverse effects.
• Keeping a record of bowel movements, feces characteristics & diet – to help ascertain any issues.
• Laxatives & stool softeners for constipation

Laxatives & stool softeners for constipation

The following may help your constipation:

• Fiber supplements/bulk-forming laxatives.
• Stimulants: Help intestinal muscles to contract.
• Lubricants: Help stool move smoothly through the colon.
• Stool softeners: Help moisten the stool, aiding the passage.
• Osmotics: These hydrate & soften the stool, easing movement.
• Neuromuscular agents: work to regulate movement through the gut.

Other treatment options for constipation

If laxatives don’t provide relief, impacted feces can be removed manually or surgically. If other symptoms present, an abdominal imaging study — such as a CT scan, MRI scan, or X-ray — may be performed to see if there is a blockage due to an underlying disease. If another condition is found, you may need prescription medications or surgery. Depending on test results, & response to medical or surgical therapy, further constipation treatment may be required.

Complementary & alternative remedies for Constipation

Other possible therapies to alleviate the symptoms of constipation include acupuncture, massage, & herbal remedies. Speak to Medcare before trying anything new, as some alternative therapies & treatments may have adverse effects.

Some Constipation home remedies that can help relieve constipation are:

• Water. Constipation can be caused by dehydration. Drinking more water, either still or sparkling, can improve your mood & eliminate constipation.
• Coffee. Coffee is considered a natural laxative, stimulating gut muscles. Be careful with the amount of caffeine you consume as too much may lead to anxiety & restlessness.
• Yogurt. Add natural yogurt & other probiotic-rich foods to your diet for improved digestive health & relief from constipation.
• Prunes. The sorbitol in prunes has a natural laxative effect, helping relieve constipation.

Complications of Constipation

While constipation can be uncomfortable & awkward, it is generally not a life-threatening condition. However, if OTC medications, lifestyle changes & home remedies do not see a change in symptoms, this could indicate a more serious underlying condition – such as colorectal cancer.

Complications as a result of severe constipation include:

• Rectal bleeding brought on by straining
• Anal fissures - a small tear around the anus
• Hemorrhoids (piles) - swollen, inflamed blood vessels in the anus
• Fecal impaction - dried stool collects, leading to obstruction
• Reduced quality of life
• Depression