Diverticulitis can cause constipation. Research suggests that constipation is not a risk factor for diverticulitis.
Constipation is a symptom of diverticulitis. There is little evidence that constipation causes diverticulitis. Mild inflammation and frequent bowel movements may be greater risk factors for diverticular disease.
This article looks at the relationship between constipation and diverticulitis, tips for treating and preventing constipation, and when to see a doctor.
diverticulitis
Several theory This suggests that constipation or straining during bowel movements can cause pressure inside the colon. This pressure causes sacs, or diverticula, to form in diverticulosis. Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula become inflamed.
according to Articles from 2018, constipation is unlikely to cause diverticulosis. Rather, low-grade inflammation may contribute to diverticular disease.
according to 2020 survey, more frequent bowel movements, but not constipation, may be associated with diverticulitis. This may be caused by:
- Sitting on the toilet for a long time can put stress on your colon.
- Increased bowel movements may change the gut microbiome and increase the risk of diverticulitis
- Frequent bowel movements indicate chronic low-grade inflammation and can increase the risk of diverticulitis.
Click here to learn more about diverticulitis.
Treatment of constipation
Bowel training can also help treat constipation by teaching your body to defecate at the same time every day. You may want to aim to have a bowel movement within 15 to 45 minutes after eating.
It is important to allow enough time to defecate. You can relax and place your feet on the footstool to stay comfortable and avoid tension.
Biofeedback therapy can also help retrain the muscles involved in defecation to become more regular.
If diet and lifestyle changes don’t work, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives or medications to relieve constipation, such as:
- Osmotic agents such as MiraLAX and milk of magnesia
- Stool softeners such as Colace and Docusate
- Lubricant such as mineral oil
- Stimulants such as colletol and dulcolax
If these are ineffective, your doctor may prescribe medications such as:
- Lubiprostone increases water in the gastrointestinal tract, softening stools and promoting bowel movements.
- Linaclotide or plecanatide can help encourage regular bowel movements in people with long-term constipation.
- Prucalopride helps the colon move stool for bowel movements in people with long-term constipation.
You may also want to talk to your doctor if you think a medicine or supplement you are taking may be causing your constipation.
Your doctor may recommend other tests if your constipation doesn’t respond to first-line treatments or if you have other concerning symptoms.
Learn more about laxatives and stool softeners.
healthy eating and lifestyle habits
- do regular exercise
- drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Aim to defecate at the same time every day, such as after meals.
diet
Eating a high-fiber diet can help prevent constipation. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) recommends the following:
good fiber source include:
Learn more about high-fiber foods here.
You should consult your doctor if you have constipation.
If home treatments do not improve your constipation, or if you have a family history of rectal or colon cancer, see your doctor.
You should also see your doctor if you have symptoms of diverticulitis. You should seek emergency medical care if you have diverticulitis and experience any of the following:
These symptoms are may show Serious complications that require immediate treatment.
Constipation can be a symptom of diverticulitis. Previous theories suggest that constipation may be the cause of diverticulitis. However, recent research suggests that this is not the case.
Treatments for constipation include increasing your fiber intake, drinking plenty of water, and exercising regularly. These steps can also help prevent constipation.
If you are suffering from severe constipation, or home remedies are not working, you can contact your doctor who will prescribe fiber supplements or medicines to promote bowel movements.