Constipation — When should you consult a doctor?

Constipation — When should you consult a doctor?

Read to know if difficulty in passing stools is a signs of constipation and when to consult a doctor.

Dr Vedant Karvir, Consultant Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist & Interventional Endoscopist, Mumbai reveals the common symptoms of constipationthat have been scientifically used by doctors for diagnosis. To diagnose constipation, the person should experience two or more symptoms.

Straining during defecations (emptying of stools) at least 25% of the times. An occurrence of lumpy or hard stools in at least 25% of defecations. The feeling of incomplete evacuation for at least 25% of defecations. Sensation of anorectal obstruction/blockage for at least 25% of defecations Having fewer than three defecations per week

Apart from this, there can be other causes of constipationsuch as the use of certain medications, colon cancer, hypothyroidism, pregnancyor some specific medical condition, which the doctor will assess.

When does constipation become a warning sign?

Not many people know that changes in the bowel habits may be a warning sign of a viral or bacterial infection, obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or colon cancer. If you have one or more of the following symptoms, you must consult your doctor at the earliest.

Constipation that lasts for more than two weeks Unexplained urge to have a bowel movement Bloody diarrhoea or sudden onset of diarrhoea Black or tarry coloured stools

Consult your doctor immediately if you suffer from any of these symptoms as if left untreated constipation can lead to various health complicationslike piles or haemorrhoids, ulcers, abdominal pain, anal fissures and fistula. Ignoring the condition and not consulting a doctor might make it difficult to identify a natural solution to deal with it in the long run. Also, read about home remedies for constipationthat work (and how to use them).

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