Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Constipation
Written by Amar Lunagaria
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Reviewed by James Wong
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Updated Jan 27, 2025
•Published Jan 15, 2025
Fact checkedWhat is Constipation?
Constipation is when you have infrequent, difficult, or painful bowel movements. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including diet, medications, or stress. Understanding what causes constipation can help you take action to relieve it and maintain a healthy digestive system.
Symptoms of Constipation
Common symptoms of constipation include:
- Infrequent bowel movements (less than three times a week)
- Straining or difficulty passing stools
- Hard, dry stools
- Abdominal discomfort or bloating
- Feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation
What causes Constipation?
There are many potential causes of constipation, such as:
- Low-fiber diet or inadequate fluid intake
- Lack of physical activity
- Certain medications (e.g., painkillers, antidepressants)
- Stress or anxiety
- Medical conditions (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, hypothyroidism)
- Age-related changes in digestive function
Risk factors for Constipation
You may be at higher risk of constipation if you:
- Are older, as digestion slows down with age
- Have a sedentary lifestyle with little physical activity
- Follow a low-fiber or high-fat diet
- Are pregnant
- Have a history of digestive disorders
- Take medications known to cause constipation
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How is Constipation diagnosed?
Diagnosis often involves:
- Medical history review (diet, medication, lifestyle)
- Physical examination (abdominal tenderness, bloating)
- Rectal examination to check for blockages
- Imaging tests (e.g., X-rays, colonoscopy) to assess bowel health
- Blood tests to rule out underlying conditions like thyroid issues
How is Constipation treated?
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of constipation:
- Dietary changes (increase fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Hydration (drink plenty of fluids to keep stools soft)
- Physical activity (regular exercise can stimulate bowel movements)
- Over-the-counter laxatives or stool softeners for short-term relief
- Prescription medications or therapies for chronic constipation
Medications for Constipation
Common medications for constipation include:
- Laxatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol, bisacodyl)
- Stool softeners (e.g., docusate sodium)
- Fiber supplements (e.g., psyllium)
Can Constipation be prevented?
Constipation can often be prevented by:
- Eating a high-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Drinking plenty of water throughout the day
- Regular physical activity (walking, exercise)
- Managing stress levels
- Avoiding delaying bowel movements when the urge arises
Managing Constipation at home
- Eat fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains)
- Stay hydrated by drinking water, herbal teas, or clear broths
- Engage in regular physical activity (walking or light exercise)
- Consider over-the-counter remedies like fiber supplements or stool softeners
- Establish a regular bathroom routine to encourage bowel movement
When should you seek help for Constipation?
Seek medical attention if:
- Constipation lasts more than a week or is severe
- You experience persistent abdominal pain or bloating
- There is blood in your stool or a sudden change in bowel habits
- You have unexplained weight loss or fatigue
- Over-the-counter treatments are not effective
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How NiHowdy helps with Constipation
NiHowdy offers savings on medications for constipation, like laxatives and stool softeners, making it easier to manage your symptoms while earning Bitcoin rebates.
Success stories with Constipation
Michael had been struggling with constipation due to a low-fiber diet. After using NiHowdy to save on fiber supplements, he was able to improve his digestion and manage his symptoms effectively. The savings helped him stay consistent with his treatment and feel better overall.
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