Feeling bloated, straining on the toilet, or going days without a bowel movement can be miserable. Even when you do go, you might feel like you haven’t completely emptied your bowels.
If you’re looking for constipation relief, there are several things you can try at home. But when constipation keeps coming back, finding out what’s causing it can make a difference.
Constipation happens when stool moves too slowly through your colon, becomes hard and dry, or is difficult to pass. You can even have a bowel movement every day and still be constipated.
Common causes include:
Some medications, including opioid pain medicines, iron supplements, and certain antidepressants, can cause constipation. Health conditions such as diabetes and thyroid problems may also affect your bowels.
A few changes to your daily routine may help.
Fiber can make stool easier to pass. Try fruits, vegetables, beans, oats, and whole grains. Add fiber slowly to avoid gas and bloating. A psyllium supplement may also help.
Dehydration can make stool harder to pass. Drink water throughout the day, especially when increasing fiber. You don’t need to force yourself to drink extra.
Regular activity can help your bowels move. Even a daily walk may make a difference.
Your bowels become more active after meals, especially breakfast. Try sitting on the toilet after eating. A small footstool that raises your knees above your hips may make it easier to go. Don’t ignore the urge when it comes.
Polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX) keeps water in your stool, making it softer and easier to pass.
Stimulant laxatives such as bisacodyl and senna help your bowels move. They’re often used for short-term relief, but your doctor may recommend them for longer use in some cases.
Sometimes, the problem isn’t hard stool. The muscles that help you poop may not relax when they should. This is called pelvic floor dyssynergia.
You might strain, feel like stool is stuck, or still feel full after going.
In some women, a rectocele can make emptying difficult. This happens when the rectum bulges toward the vagina because the tissue between them has weakened.
These problems may need treatments such as pelvic floor therapy or biofeedback rather than more fiber or laxatives.
Make an appointment if constipation doesn’t improve, keeps coming back, or your bowel habits change without a clear reason.
You should also get checked if you:
Tell your doctor if you have a family history of colon or rectal cancer.
Seek urgent care if constipation comes with severe belly pain, repeated vomiting, major swelling, or an inability to pass gas. These can be signs of a bowel blockage.
Constipation can leave you uncomfortable and frustrated. If home remedies aren’t working, there may be a reason that needs medical attention.
At Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio, our team can find out what’s causing your symptoms and recommend treatment.
Schedule an appointment with Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio in San Antonio, TX, for help with ongoing constipation.
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