When Does Constipation Warrant Medical Intervention?

Constipation is one of those issues that patients are hesitant to discuss with their doctor. However, it’s very common and nothing to feel embarrassed about. Roughy three out of every five Americans with constipation have never sought medical attention for their symptoms. There’s no need to suffer unnecessarily, and there are some good reasons to discuss your symptoms with a doctor.

At Premier Gastroenterology in Brooksville, Florida, Rodwan Hiba, MD, is backed by nearly two decades of experience diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal problems. When it comes to bowel movements, it can be difficult to identify when a small problem has turned into a chronic issue that requires professional evaluation. 

Here's what you need to know about when to see a doctor for constipation, whether it's the first time you haven't had a bowel movement in a week or you’ve dealt with chronic constipation for a while.

What’s considered constipation?

Frequency, consistency, and ease of bowel movements vary from person to person. What’s normal for you may be abnormal for someone else. This can make it challenging for you to determine whether the issues you’re having need medical attention. 

Generally, you’re considered constipated if you:

• Have fewer than three bowel movements per week
• Pass hard, dry stools
• Strain regularly during bowel movements
• Feel as though you can’t empty your bowels
• Feel that there’s a blockage in your bowels

If you’re dealing with any of these symptoms, it’s time to talk to a doctor. 

Managing occasional constipation

If constipation strikes occasionally, boosting your fiber and water intake can often get things moving again and keep you more regular. Additionally, when you have brief bouts of constipation, avoid foods that can stop you up, such as high-fat dairy, red meat, and highly processed foods. Aim to eat at least 25 grams of fiber each day if you’re a woman, 38 grams if you’re a man. 

When does constipation warrant a doctor visit?

Schedule a doctor visit to discuss your symptoms whenever you experience persistent, unexplained constipation. It’s always best to have your symptoms evaluated to rule out anything serious, determine the cause, and start a treatment plan to get things back on track. 

Who is more prone to constipation?

You’re more likely to experience constipation if you:

• Are dehydrated
• Are an older adult
• Eat a low-fiber diet
• Are inactive
• Take certain medications

Taking action to reduce these risk factors can improve regularity. 

Complications of constipation

Left untreated, constipation can cause complications, including:

• Hemorrhoids
• Stool leakage
• Fecal impaction
• Rectal bleeding
• Rectal prolapse

Long-term constipation is bound to cause problems, but with treatment, you can prevent complications and improve bowel health. 

Help for constipation

Constipation is very treatable. Dr. Hiba will work closely with you to choose the most appropriate treatment. Getting to the root of your constipation will guide treatment recommendations. Constipation is a common symptom of various digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome and diverticular disease. If you’re found to have an underlying digestive disorder, Dr. Hiba will recommend a comprehensive treatment plan to manage your symptoms. 

Help for constipation and other digestive issues starts here. Give our Brooksville office a call or send us a message to schedule a visit with Dr. Hiba. We offer in-person and telehealth appointments.