Understanding Chronic Constipation: Symptoms and Causes

Constipation is a widespread condition that affects people of all ages globally. While occasional constipation is common, some individuals experience chronic constipation, which can significantly impact their daily lives. This condition often requires more frequent medical visits, leading to increased financial burdens. Treatment for chronic constipation varies based on its underlying causes, though sometimes a definitive cause remains unidentified.

Chronic constipation can lead to severe complications such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and even fecal impaction, which can cause considerable pain and discomfort. Understanding the nuances of chronic constipation is essential for effective management and improved quality of life. Additionally, chronic constipation can affect mental health, leading to anxiety and depression due to the persistent discomfort and inconvenience it causes. The social impact is also significant, as sufferers may avoid social activities or travel due to fear of discomfort or the need for frequent restroom breaks.

Table of Contents

• Symptoms
• Causes of Constipation
• Prevention of Chronic Constipation
• Natural Treatments for Constipation
• Role of Clinical Trials in Advancing Knowledge
• Current Constipation Studies
• Key Takeaways
• Frequently Asked Questions

Symptoms:

Chronic constipation is typically characterized by the following symptoms:

• Passing fewer than three stools a week
• Difficulty during bowel movements
• Hard or small stools
• Bloating and abdominal pain
• Feeling of incomplete evacuation

Constipation is deemed chronic if you experience two or more of these symptoms for at least three months. Additionally, individuals may experience fatigue and irritability due to the constant discomfort and straining. The persistent nature of these symptoms can lead to anxiety about bowel movements, further exacerbating the condition. In severe cases, chronic constipation can cause rectal bleeding due to the strain, and it may also lead to the development of rectal prolapse, where part of the rectum protrudes from the anus.

Moreover, people with chronic constipation may also experience decreased appetite and a sense of fullness that affects their nutritional intake, which can further complicate their health. The long-term strain from chronic constipation can also lead to pelvic floor dysfunction, where the muscles needed for bowel movements become weakened or damaged.

Causes of Constipation:

Constipation can stem from numerous causes, which vary from person to person. Common causes include:

• Dietary factors: Insufficient fiber intake, high consumption of dairy or meat, and low fluid intake.
• Lifestyle factors: Lack of physical activity, prolonged periods of inactivity, and ignoring the urge to defecate.
• Psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Routine changes: Alterations in daily habits or diet.
• Medication side effects

In many cases, the exact cause of constipation may not be easily identified. Chronic constipation can also be linked to underlying medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis. These conditions can disrupt normal bowel function, making it more difficult to pass stools. Furthermore, hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can also contribute to constipation. Additionally, aging is a significant factor, as digestive efficiency decreases over time, and older adults are more likely to suffer from chronic constipation due to a slower metabolism and reduced physical activity. Genetic factors may also play a role, as some individuals may have a predisposition to slower digestive transit times.

Prevention of Chronic Constipation:

To prevent chronic constipation, consider the following measures:

• Increase fiber intake: Incorporate high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains into your diet.
• Stay hydrated: Aim for at least 2 liters of water daily.
• Limit processed foods: Reduce consumption of highly processed foods, as well as dairy and meat products.
• Exercise regularly: Engage in physical activities to keep your digestive system active.
• Manage stress: Implement stress-reducing techniques to maintain overall well-being.
• Respond to bodily cues: Use the bathroom when you feel the urge without delay.

In addition to these measures, maintaining a regular eating schedule and considering probiotics to promote a healthy gut flora can be beneficial. Establishing a routine that includes specific times for meals and bathroom visits can help train your body to have more regular bowel movements.

Additionally, practicing mindful eating, where you take time to chew food thoroughly and eat in a relaxed environment, can also aid digestion and prevent constipation. Integrating yoga or meditation into your daily routine can also help manage stress and improve overall digestive health. Furthermore, ensuring you get enough sleep and maintaining a regular sleep schedule can positively impact your digestive system, as the body’s internal clock plays a crucial role in bowel regularity.

Natural Treatments for Constipation:

Research has highlighted the benefits of consuming water-soluble fiber for increasing the frequency of bowel movements. This type of fiber is fermented by gut bacteria, promoting a healthy gut microbiome. Soluble fiber has prebiotic effects, fostering the growth of beneficial bacteria and reducing harmful bacteria, which can be particularly beneficial for those suffering from constipation. Natural remedies such as aloe vera, magnesium supplements, and herbal teas like peppermint or ginger can provide gentle relief from constipation by soothing the digestive tract and stimulating bowel movements.

Additionally, regular consumption of fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi can support a healthy gut microbiome and promote regular bowel movements. Practicing abdominal massage and acupressure can also stimulate bowel activity and provide relief from constipation. Another effective method can be incorporating physical activities such as walking or swimming, which help stimulate the muscles involved in digestion and promote bowel movements.

Role of Clinical Trials in Advancing knowledge

There is a continuous need for effective and safe first-line interventions for constipation that do not necessarily require medication. Clinical trials play a pivotal role in this regard, exploring new medical strategies and treatments. These trials rely on volunteer participation and are crucial for advancing medical knowledge and improving treatments for chronic constipation. The results from these studies help develop new guidelines and recommendations for both healthcare providers and patients, ultimately leading to better management strategies and improved quality of life for those affected by chronic constipation.

Moreover, clinical trials can identify potential side effects of treatments and provide data on long-term efficacy, which is essential for developing safer and more effective therapies. These trials also pave the way for personalized medicine approaches, where treatments can be tailored to an individual's specific genetic makeup and lifestyle. Additionally, clinical trials often investigate the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions, dietary changes, and alternative therapies, providing a holistic approach to managing chronic constipation.

Current Constipation Studies

Severe Constipation: 

Atlantia Clinical Trials are currently looking for adults aged 18-65, based around Chicago, to take part in a research study. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of a probiotic supplement on those with severe constipation (classed in this study less than 3 bowel movements per week).

Over a 10-11 week period, successful participants will take the probiotic placebo product daily for 8 weeks, track their bowel movements daily with an e-diary app, and visit Atlantia's clinic in Downtown Chicago 3 times.

Each participant will receive $600 upon completion of the study in return for their time and any expenses.

Key Takeaways:

• Constipation is very common and can affect people of all ages. Some people experience chronic constipation, which can disrupt daily life and require more medical visits.
• Key symptoms include fewer than three stools a week, trouble with bowel movements, hard or small stools, bloating, and abdominal pain.
• Common causes include low fiber diet, insufficient fluid intake, high consumption of dairy or meat, lack of exercise, stress, and side effects of medication.
• Soluble fiber can help increase bowel movements and improve stool consistency by promoting healthy gut bacteria.

FAQs:

What are the common symptoms of chronic constipation?

Common symptoms include passing fewer than three stools a week, difficulty having bowel movements, hard or small stools, bloating, abdominal pain, and a feeling that not everything came out during a bowel movement.

How can I prevent chronic constipation?

To prevent chronic constipation, increase your fiber intake, drink at least 2 liters of water a day, exercise regularly, manage stress, and use the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge.

What role do clinical trials play in constipation research?

Clinical trials help researchers develop new, effective treatments for constipation. These studies involve volunteers and aim to advance medical knowledge and improve patient outcomes.

Why is chronic constipation a concern?

Chronic constipation can significantly disrupt daily life, cause discomfort, and lead to more frequent medical visits, which can be financially burdensome.

How does soluble fiber help with constipation?

Soluble fiber is fermented by gut bacteria, which helps increase stool frequency and improve stool consistency. It also has prebiotic effects, promoting the growth of beneficial microbes in the gut.

What should I do if I frequently experience constipation?

To learn more about our current Chronic Constipation study or apply to take part, click here.