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3 Reasons You May Have Chronic Constipation

If you struggle with constipation for three months or longer, it's considered chronic. As a board-certified gastroenterologist, Dr. Bharat Pothuri of GastroDoxs treats patients to help them improve this frustrating, uncomfortable, and, sometimes, painful condition.

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Bharat Pothuri

The 3 Causes of Chronic Constipation

Constipated, bloated and fatigued by the day? You're not alone. Millions of individuals in the U.S., and most in the city of Houston, are chronic constipation sufferers. We know how annoying it is when you are pushing on the toilet or you can feel pain in your belly at Gastrodoxs. Here in this post we are going to describe three causes of chronic constipation. We are going to respond to such questions as well as Does constipation bring about back pain?! and "Stress constipation yes or no? Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a Houston gastroenterologist, gives his professional advice on how to feel lighter and more comfortable.

Table of Contents

1. The importance of Chronic Constipation

Chronic constipation refers to less than three bowel movements in a week with frequent weeks or months of duration. Sools can be stiff, dry and difficult to move.

Common symptoms include:

Without treatment, constipation may cause such issues as hemorrhoids or rectal prolapse.

Dr. Bharat Pothuri says that constipation may change your life. It can cause fatigue, disrupt your sleep patterns and even change your mood pattern.

2. Reason 1: Hydration and Dietary habits

What you consume and what you drink is a huge impact on your digestive system. The question here would be, "Is constipation the cause of back pains? Although the actual cause of your back pain is not your diet, the pains and swelling in your stomach may strain your back.

Common culprits:

2.1 Low Fiber Intake

Fiber is used to bulk and to make the stool soft. A lack of sufficient fruits, veggies, legumes and whole grains may result in hard and dry stool. The adults require approximately 25-30 grams of fiber per day.

2.2 Not Enough Water

Water helps fiber work well. It maintains gut hydration as well. Unless you drink enough- particular in hot Houston weather- the digestion will be retarded. Aim for 8-10 cups a day.

2.3 Too Many Processed Foods

Low in fiber and high in fat are fast food, chips and baked goods. The foods make your digestion slow down and may make you feel slow.

The tip of Dr. Pothuri: At the beginning of your day, eat a fiber-based smoothie- spinach, berries, chia seeds, and yogurt. It is a simple method of maintaining a regular bowel movement.

3. Reason 2: Stress, Sleep & Lifestyle

Have you ever wondered: Can stress be the cause of constipation? Yes, it can. In the case of stress, your body stops digestion. In the long-run, it may result in chronic constipation.

3.1 Stress Slows Digestion

There are stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline which make the gut cut off blood. This retards the movement of the bowels thus making the stool remain longer in the colon and dry up.

3.2 Bad Sleep Has an Impact on the Health of the Gut

Sleep is good as it allows your body to heal and does not slow down the digestion process. In one of the studies, individuals with low sleep levels were more constipated.

3.3 Lack of Physical Activity

Sedentary posture slows down bowel movements. Even walking or stretching is a regular movement which keeps things on the move. Attempt to have at least 30 minutes of exercise each day.

The Quote of Dr. Pothuri, who called your gut a garden hose. Kinkage can be done by stress and extended sitting. Light movement and deep breathing could be of great assistance.

4. Reason 3: Pre-existing Health Problems

Food or stress is sometimes not a cause of constipation. Issues with your gut can be caused by health problems.

4.1 Hypothyroidism

In case your thyroid is under active, it slows down your entire body- digestion included. Observe exhaustion, weight gain or coldness.

4.2 Nerve-Related Issues

The nerves which assist in the movement of your bowels can be affected by conditions such as Parkinson, spinal injuries or multiple sclerosis.

4.3 Diabetes

Blood sugar may destroy gut nerves. This can either slow down the digestion or cause a disorder known as gastroparesis.

4.4 Medications

Some antacids, painkiller, and antidepressants may slow down the bowel movement. Never leave your meds without consulting a physician.

4.5 IBS with Constipation (IBS-C)

This form of IBS presents with stomachache, bloating and change in bowel movements. It is usually exacerbated by stress or dietary modifications.

According to Dr. Pothuri, it is important to know the cause of the problem. A doctor of GI will assist you to get some answers and the appropriate treatment.

5. When do I need to visit a constipation doctor around me in Houston

Mild constipation is treated by many individuals at home. However, when it persists or intensifies, then it is time to call a doctor. Enter constipation doctor near me, and get the local gastroenterologists. In Houston, you can:

See a GI specialist who is a specialist in GastroDoxs or any other reliable Houston GI. Early care can be used to avoid long-term complications.

6. Symptom Comparison Table

Symptom Mild Moderate Severe
Bowel movements per week 2-3 1-2 Less than 1
Stool texture Slightly hard Hard and lumpy Dry, pellet-like
Abdominal pain or distension Occasional Common place Persistent
Constipation as a result of stress Rare Yes Yes, very likely
Back pains with constipation Unlikely Possible Common
Constipation with fever No Rare Very rare
Feeling tired and bloated Mild fatigue Moderate fatigue High fatigue

7. The best tricks to decongest chronic constipation

You can relieve constipation and make yourself feel better in the following manner:

7.1 Increase Fiber Slowly

7.2 Drink More Fluids

7.3 Get Moving

7.4 Stress Less

7.5 Build a Routine

7.6 Short-Term Relief Options

Never take any medicine without consulting your doctor

7.7 Prescription Help

In case the changes at home do not help, your GI doctor might recommend:

Conclusion

The constant constipation is usually reduced to the food, stress, or illness. By increasing intake of fiber, increasing water intake, engaging in physical activity, reducing stress, and consulting an expert, you can feel better. Don't wait to find out whether constipation can cause fever or not. See a doctor. In case of persistent problems, enter into the search engine constipation doctor near me in Houston. We are preparing to make the quick of Gastrodoxs put you back on track of the digestion- of your life.

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can constipation cause back pain?

Yes. Bloating and straining may cause soreness of the back muscles.

2. Is it only present in severe cases only?

It is more probable in mild or extreme constipation.

3. Is it possible that stress can cause constipation?

Yes. Stress hormones retard digestion.

4. Is constipation accompanied by fever?

No. Fever can be an indicator of infection. See a doctor.

5. What then, in case I feel constipated, bloated and fatigued?

This may include slow digestion, bad diet or health problem.

6. When should I see a doctor?

Seek assistance when the symptoms continue beyond a period of 3 months or when they recur.

7. How fast can I feel better?

Some feel better in days. For others, it takes weeks.

8. Are laxatives safe long-term?

Fiber-based ones are. Stimulant types should not be used frequently.

9. Are children at risk of developing chronic constipation?

Yes. Diet or stool retention are mostly the causes. A pediatrician can help.

10. Where am I going to get assistance in Houston?

Enter constipation doctor near me or go to GastroDoxs and see Dr. Pothuri.

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