Constipation Specialist

What is constipation?

The medical definition of constipation is when you have three or fewer bowel movements in a week. However, everyone’s bowel habits are different. Some people have several bowel movements a day, while others have only a few bowel movements a week.

So, constipation occurs when your bowel movements are less frequent than normal, and your stool is hard and more difficult to pass. Though not always a serious medical issue, ongoing constipation may cause discomfort that affects your quality of life.

Chronic constipation may also lead to a fecal impaction that requires immediate medical intervention. 

What causes constipation?

You may develop constipation from any number of causes, ranging from a change in routine to a serious medical condition. Some of the common causes of constipation include:

• Not eating enough fiber
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Traveling
• Change in eating habits
• Medication
• Colorectal cancer
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Diverticular disease
• Structural abnormalities
• Pregnancy

The GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, team recommends you schedule a visit with a gastroenterology expert anytime you have an unexplained or ongoing change in bowel habits. 

What happens during a constipation evaluation?

When you visit GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, for a constipation evaluation, expect a thorough clinical exam. The goal of the evaluation is to find the root cause of your constipation, so you get the most effective treatment.

Your gastroenterologist asks detailed questions about your bowel habits and constipation symptoms. They also review your usual diet, exercise habits, and daily stresses, as well as your medical history and the types of medications and supplements you take.

Your provider performs a physical exam and may run various diagnostic tests to confirm or rule out the cause of your constipation, such as a blood test, stool test, or colonoscopy. 

How is constipation treated?

Your gastroenterologist at GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, creates a personalized plan for your constipation based on the underlying cause. Your plan may include:

• Diet modification
• Lifestyle changes
• Fiber supplements
• Stool softeners 
• Gastrointestinal motility medications
• Bowel training

In some cases, they may recommend surgery to correct the underlying cause of your constipation, such as a structural abnormality or fecal impaction. 

To get help with constipation, call GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, or book an appointment online today.