{"id":3393,"date":"2023-12-21T06:20:08","date_gmt":"2023-12-21T06:20:08","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/drhimanshuyadav.com\/11-causes-of-short-term-or-chronic-constipation\/"},"modified":"2023-12-21T06:20:08","modified_gmt":"2023-12-21T06:20:08","slug":"11-causes-of-short-term-or-chronic-constipation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/drhimanshuyadav.com\/blog\/11-causes-of-short-term-or-chronic-constipation\/","title":{"rendered":"11 causes of short-term or chronic constipation"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"health-sc-page_1-0\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"60\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"24\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"4\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[400, 1400, 1400, 1700, 2000, 2200, 2400, 2600, 2800]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Constipation is a condition in which you have fewer than three bowel movements a week, straining to go to the toilet, and passing small, hard stools. It may feel like not all the stool is being passed.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Constipation can have many causes, including diet, dehydration, diabetes, pregnancy, travel, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), stress, and other medical conditions.<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>This article explains common causes of constipation and what to do if simple home remedies don&#8217;t relieve your constipation.\n<\/p>\n<figure id=\"health-sc-block-image--none_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block theme-none health-sc-block-image--none health-sc-block-image-base mntl-sc-block-universal-image figure-landscape figure-high-res\"><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\">\n<span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Alexander Zubkov\/Getty Images<\/p>\n<p><\/span><br \/>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"toc-11-reasons-you-cant-poop\"\/> <\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-7\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block health-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\">    11 reasons why you can&#8217;t poop <\/span> <\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-8\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>There are so many causes of constipation that it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. Depending on the person, there may be multiple causes.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-10\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Constipation can occur occasionally or chronically. Here are some common causes of stool incontinence.\n<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-13\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\">    Diabetes <\/span> <\/h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-14\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Constipation is a common problem for people with diabetes. Diabetes can reduce the ability of the intestinal muscles to pass stool. It can also affect the amount of water and electrolytes (charged minerals and compounds) absorbed, which can affect your stool.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"1\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-16\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Taking care of constipation is important for diabetic patients. Understanding the cause is important in developing a treatment plan.\n<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-21\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\">    endometriosis <\/span> <\/h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-22\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>In endometriosis, tissue similar to the endometrium grows in other parts of the body. This can cause a variety of symptoms. If this tissue is found in or near the intestines, it can cause constipation. This is because the tissue growth can compress or partially block part of the intestine. However, complete occlusion is rare.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"16\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-27\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\">    trip <\/span> <\/h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-28\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Some people become constipated while traveling. Changes in daily routine can lead to digestive upset. Even the most experienced and conscientious traveler can use temporary assistance.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-30\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Constipation while traveling can occur for a variety of reasons, including:\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-32\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>Changes in activity level<\/li>\n<li>Defecation is delayed due to not being able to go to the toilet<\/li>\n<li>drink less water<\/li>\n<li>eat new\/different food<\/li>\n<li>jet lag<\/li>\n<li>stress<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-37\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\">    what you ate <\/span> <\/h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Eating new or unusual foods can cause constipation. Foods that are low in fiber, such as dairy products, fatty meats, eggs, and foods high in sugar, can cause or worsen constipation.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"2\"\/><span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"3\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-40\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>A high-fiber diet with 22 to 34 grams (g) of fiber per day is recommended for most people. This may help avoid constipation, as dietary fiber softens stools, making them easier to pass and pass through the digestive system.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"4\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-42\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>It is also important to drink enough water. Eating lots of fiber without drinking enough water can make constipation worse.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"2\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"health-sc-block-callout--explainer_1-0\" class=\"comp theme-explainer health-sc-block-callout--explainer health-sc-block-callout-base mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">\n<p>high protein diet<\/h3>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp expert-content explainer mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p>Eating a diet high in animal protein can cause digestive problems. People who eat a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and plant-based protein may have a lower risk of constipation.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"15\"\/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-46\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\">    pregnancy  <\/span> <\/h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-47\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Pregnancy causes many physical changes that can cause constipation.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-49\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Pregnant people don&#8217;t get enough fiber and are at risk of becoming dehydrated. Pregnant women are advised to eat foods high in fiber and drink plenty of fluids (especially water) to avoid constipation.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"5\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-51\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>It is also thought that hormonal changes may impair digestive system function. This may be more common in the first and second trimester of pregnancy.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"6\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-53\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Reduced activity during pregnancy can also cause constipation. In addition, the pressure of the fetus on the digestive tract can also cause constipation, especially in the third trimester.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"6\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-58\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\">    dehydration <\/span> <\/h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-59\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Water is important to keep stool moving through the colon. Without enough water, stool becomes too hard and difficult to pass.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"2\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-64\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\">    Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) <\/span> <\/h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-65\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional gastrointestinal disorder thought to be related to miscommunication between the brain and the gut.  IBS-C is a type of IBS that is associated with constipation. It can also cause symptoms such as bloating, discomfort, and a feeling that the rectum is not empty, even after defecating.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"8\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-67\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Treatment may begin with laxatives and increased fiber. There are also prescription medications that you can try under the guidance of your health care provider.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"8\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-72\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\">    stress <\/span> <\/h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-73\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Stress can be caused by a variety of things, from changes in your daily routine to worries you hear while using the bathroom. Stress can come from positive events, such as a new job or a date with a new partner.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-75\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Whatever the reason, stress can affect your digestive system. For some people, this can mean constipation. Returning to your daily routine and making sure your diet includes enough water and fiber may be helpful.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"7\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-77\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Some people may want to consider stress relief techniques such as yoga or meditation. In cases of extreme stress, or if depression or anxiety are also a concern, seeking care from a mental health professional may also be helpful.\n<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-82\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\">    medicine <\/span> <\/h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-83\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Medications can cause constipation. Opioids are probably the most well-known cause of drug-induced constipation, but there are many other causes.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-85\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Medications that can cause constipation include:<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"11\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-90\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\">    diverticulitis <\/span> <\/h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-91\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Diverticular disease is the presence of sacs called diverticula in the lining of the large intestine. These weakened areas look like a bulge or protrusion of the intestine. Usually they do not cause problems. However, when it becomes inflamed, it is called diverticulitis.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-93\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>It is thought that about half of people with diverticulitis also experience constipation. Diverticulitis can be painful and may cause other gastrointestinal symptoms. If you suspect you have developed diverticulitis, it is important to see your doctor.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"12\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-98\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\">    Other health conditions <\/span> <\/h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-99\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Several other health conditions can cause constipation. This may be due to the effect the condition has on the body or a side effect of treatment. <\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-101\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Health conditions that can cause constipation include:<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"2\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"health-sc-block-callout--takeaway_1-0\" class=\"comp theme-takeaway health-sc-block-callout--takeaway health-sc-block-callout-base mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">\n<p>Complications of constipation<\/h3>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0-1\" class=\"comp expert-content takeaway mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p>If constipation lasts too long, it can lead to more serious problems such as fecal impaction. So if your constipation doesn&#8217;t improve after trying diet, lifestyle, supplements, and laxatives, you shouldn&#8217;t wait too long to seek help.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"toc-still-cant-poop-after-laxatives\"\/> <\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-106\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block health-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\">    Even after taking laxatives, I still can&#8217;t poop. <\/span> <\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-107\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Relieving and preventing constipation requires several steps. You may want to start with less invasive home remedies before moving on to other methods.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-109\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Many people start with over-the-counter (OTC) treatments such as laxatives and stool softeners. Most laxatives and stool softeners can be used for long periods of time. They tend to work fairly quickly. Several different forms are available to treat hard stools.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"9\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-111\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>But laxatives don&#8217;t always work. In this case, you may be suffering from chronic constipation. Or maybe your constipation is so severe that you need more intensive methods to resolve it. If your lifestyle changes and laxatives don&#8217;t work, you should seek help from your health care provider.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"health-sc-block-callout--explainer_1-0-1\" class=\"comp theme-explainer health-sc-block-callout--explainer health-sc-block-callout-base mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">\n<p>Posture in the toilet<\/h3>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0-2\" class=\"comp expert-content explainer mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p>Sitting hunched over the toilet may not be the best way to relieve constipation. Some people find it easier to defecate when they sit with their legs elevated. Footstools are commercially available to elevate your feet when you are on the toilet. This may be suitable for people who suffer from constipation.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"14\"\/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-115\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\">    Pain due to chronic constipation <\/span> <\/h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-116\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Constipation can cause pain. The pain may be due to abdominal distension. They can also form in the rectum or buttocks due to straining during defecation. There is also the possibility of lower back pain.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"2\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-118\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>If your pain becomes severe or your symptoms do not improve after constipation resolves, contact your health care provider. Constipation may be associated with the development of hemorrhoids or fissures (fissures) in the anal canal. These may require further treatment, and your health care provider can help.\n<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"toc-steps-to-take-if-you-have-trouble-pooping\"\/> <\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-120\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block health-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\">    What to do if you have problems with defecation  <\/span> <\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-121\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Drinking more water, eating foods that contain fiber, and taking walks or other light exercise can help manage constipation. If you&#8217;re taking medications that cause constipation, talking to your health care provider about ways to minimize the effects of constipation is also a first step.<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-123\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Fiber supplements (also called bulk-forming laxatives) could be your next step. These products contain various forms of fiber and can be used daily to soften stools and make them easier to pass. They work by getting more water into your stool.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"10\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-125\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Some people may need to try several different forms to find the one that works for them. Carefully read the instructions on how to get started, as it can initially cause symptoms such as bloating. The work may take him more than a day.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-127\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>There are several types of bulk-forming laxatives:\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-129\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>FiberCon (polycarbophil calcium)<\/li>\n<li>Benefiber (dextrin)<\/li>\n<li>Citrucell (methylcellulose)<\/li>\n<li>Metamucil (Psyllium)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-131\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Next, you may want to try lubricants such as stool softeners (osmotic agents) and mineral oil. These products draw water into your stool, making it easier to pass.<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-133\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Stool softener laxatives come in the following brands:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-135\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>Kolace, Koletor, Pericolace, Surfac (Docusart)<\/li>\n<li>Lubricant (mineral oil)<\/li>\n<li>MiraLAX or generic (polyethylene glycol)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-137\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>The next step may be a stimulant laxative. However, they can become a habit. In other words, your intestinal muscles get used to it and it becomes difficult to defecate if you don&#8217;t take it.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-139\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Therefore, you should use stimulant laxatives with caution, use them for short periods of time, and consult your health care provider if you need them long-term.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"9\"\/><\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-141\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Common brands include:\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-143\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>Bisacodyl (Coletol, Dulcolax, Ex-Lax Ultra)<\/li>\n<li>Casantranol (Gialose Plus, Pericolace)<\/li>\n<li>Cascara (Naturax)<\/li>\n<li>castor oil<\/li>\n<li>Senna (formerly Lux, Fletchers Castria, Senokot)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-145\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Your health care provider may also recommend using tap water enemas. When it comes to enemas, it is important to follow the instructions on the product. Enemas can become habit-forming, so they cannot be used for a long time to relieve constipation.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"9\"\/><\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-147\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Prescription medications are available to relieve constipation. Your health care professional can help sort out the cause of your constipation and decide on treatment. Treatment may look like dietary or lifestyle changes. However, if your condition is causing chronic constipation, this may include changing medications or treatments for other conditions.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"9\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"health-sc-block-callout--takeaway_1-0-1\" class=\"comp theme-takeaway health-sc-block-callout--takeaway health-sc-block-callout-base mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">\n<p>pelvic floor dysfunction<\/h3>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0-3\" class=\"comp expert-content takeaway mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p>In some cases, chronic constipation can be caused by your pelvic muscles. Diet, lifestyle, and laxatives may not be the answer to these problems. For example, in some cases these muscles can become stiff, making it difficult to defecate.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"13\"\/><\/p>\n<p>If your constipation doesn&#8217;t respond to other treatments, it may be worth asking your health care provider about pelvic floor disorders. Pelvic floors exist in both men and women, so this cause of constipation can occur in anyone. You may need a professional health care provider to administer pelvic floor therapy.<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"9\"\/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"toc-when-to-notify-healthcare-provider-of-symptoms\"\/> <\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-150\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block health-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\">    When to notify your health care provider about your symptoms  <\/span> <\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-151\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Constipation is common. It may resolve itself or with some changes you can make at home. Some people may find temporary relief from symptoms with various types of laxatives.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-153\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Some signs and symptoms associated with constipation require immediate treatment. These include:<span class=\"ql-inline-citation\" data-cite=\"3\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-155\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>Blood in or on the stool<\/li>\n<li>heat<\/li>\n<li>No stool or gas<\/li>\n<li>severe abdominal pain<\/li>\n<li>severe back pain<\/li>\n<li>Unexplained weight loss<\/li>\n<li>vomiting<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"toc-summary\"\/> <\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-157\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block health-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\">    summary <\/span> <\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-158\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Constipation is a common problem. It is usually short-lived and improves with dietary and lifestyle changes. For some people, using bulk-forming laxatives or stool softeners may help resolve the problem.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-160\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<p>Preventing constipation is important for people who tend to experience it frequently. Severe pain and bloody stools are some of the symptoms that require immediate treatment if you are constipated. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Constipation is a condition in which you have fewer than three bowel movements a week, straining to go to the toilet, and passing small, hard stools. It may feel like not all the stool is being passed. Constipation can have many causes, including diet, dehydration, diabetes, pregnancy, travel, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), stress, and other &#8230; <a title=\"11 causes of short-term or chronic constipation\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/drhimanshuyadav.com\/blog\/11-causes-of-short-term-or-chronic-constipation\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about 11 causes of short-term or chronic constipation\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":3394,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[83],"tags":[101,103,2279],"class_list":["post-3393","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-diverticular-disease","tag-chronic","tag-constipation","tag-shortterm"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/drhimanshuyadav.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3393","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/drhimanshuyadav.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/drhimanshuyadav.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drhimanshuyadav.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drhimanshuyadav.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3393"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/drhimanshuyadav.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3393\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/drhimanshuyadav.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3393"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drhimanshuyadav.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3393"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drhimanshuyadav.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3393"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}