Constipation in Katy, TX
Constipation can cause infrequent bowel movements, hard or difficult-to-pass stools, straining, bloating, abdominal discomfort, or a feeling that your bowel movement is incomplete. Occasional constipation is common, but persistent or recurrent symptoms may sometimes be associated with medications, dietary factors, changes in routine, or an underlying gastrointestinal condition. At Katy Integrative Gastroenterology, our gastroenterology team evaluates constipation and related digestive symptoms to help identify potential causes and develop an individualized treatment plan.
If constipation does not improve with appropriate dietary and lifestyle changes, continues to recur, or is accompanied by concerning symptoms, a gastroenterologist in Katy, TX can evaluate your condition. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your evaluation may include a physical examination, blood tests, colonoscopy, or other diagnostic testing when appropriate.
What is Constipation?
Constipation is a condition where stools or bowel movements become hard and difficult to expel from the body. This can result in fewer and strained bowel movements. It usually occurs when excessive water is absorbed from the stool while inside the colon. Constipation is a common condition that affects almost everyone at some time.
What Causes Constipation?
Constipation occurs when there is a slow movement of food through the digestive system. This could be due to improper functioning of the colon muscles. As food remains longer in the colon more water is absorbed from it. The time between bowel movements can vary from person to person, but if you have not passed a stool for 3 days, it can be hard and difficult to pass. Factors that can increase your risk of constipation include physical inactivity, a diet that’s low in fiber and certain medications such as narcotic pain medication, antidepressants and anticonvulsants. Consumption of milk and other dairy products can cause constipation in some people.
Other causes/factors include ageing, pregnancy, a change in routine, delaying a bowel movement, poor water consumption, overuse of laxatives leading to dependency, abnormalities of the digestive tract such as Hirschsprung disease, irritable bowel syndrome or a stricture, compression of the colon due to a tumor or scar tissue, certain neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease, and endocrine disorders such as diabetes or hypothyroidism.
Anatomy of the Intestines
Food from the stomach enters the small intestine and then passes into the large intestine or colon. Here, water and ions are absorbed to form faces or stools. The colon forms an arch which encircles the small intestine and can be divided into 4 parts, the ascending, transverse, descending and sigmoid colon. The sigmoid or terminal portion of the colon connects to the rectum which leads to the anus. Circular and longitudinal muscle bands along the length of the colon help with the absorption and movement of faces towards the rectum. This movement occurs more prominently when one is active.
Symptoms of Constipation
Those with constipation have fewer bowel movements and find it difficult to pass stools. It may seem incomplete even after passing stools. The stools are harder and smaller. You may experience bloating of the abdomen or a stomachache. Loss of appetite may also be experienced.
Diagnosis of Constipation
Your doctor will review your symptoms and perform a physical examination to identify any underlying cause. Blood tests may be performed to check hormone levels. Tests may be performed to see how food moves through the colon. The anal muscles are evaluated. A colonoscopy may be performed to identify any blockage within the colon.
What Happens if Constipation is Left Untreated?
Constipation usually resolves on its own or with conservative treatments. If an underlying cause is present, it may require treatment. Chronic constipation that is untreated may lead to complications such as hemorrhoids, bleeding, obstruction, or a prolapse, where part of the rectum or colon protrudes through the anus.
Treatment for Constipation
Constipation can be prevented by eating a well-balanced diet with an increased amount of fiber and water and reducing caffeine as it can dehydrate stools. Those who find dairy products constipating should reduce such consumption. Engaging in more physical activity and regular exercise is recommended. Do not resist the urge to go to the bathroom and give yourself enough time.
Those with constipation are advised to increase water intake and try warm liquids. High-fiber cereal, prunes and other fruits and vegetables are recommended. Exercise is recommended as it also stimulates the muscles of the colon.
Your doctor may prescribe a laxative to ease constipation. There are various kinds of laxatives that work in different ways. Stimulants help the muscles of the intestine to contract more effectively. Stool softeners soften the stools. Lubricants help the stools move through the colon more easily. Osmotic draw water into the colon. Other laxatives include fiber supplements, saline laxatives and chloride channel activators.
If conservative treatments fail and you are unable to pass stools, surgery may be necessary. This involves removal of a segment of the rectum or anal canal to clear the blockage. Newer less invasive procedures such as antegrade colonic enema surgery may also be recommended.
Constipation may cause some discomfort but is usually not life-threatening and resolves on its own. Chronic constipation may lead to complications and should be investigated for any underlying condition.
Why Choose Katy Integrative Gastroenterology for Constipation in Katy, TX?
Choosing a gastroenterology practice for constipation care involves more than finding a convenient location. At Katy Integrative Gastroenterology, our team provides personalized digestive care focused on understanding the potential causes of your bowel symptoms.
We take the time to review your bowel habits, diet, fluid intake, activity level, medications, medical history, and other individual factors. This information can help determine whether constipation may be related to lifestyle factors, medication, a digestive disorder, or another underlying health concern.
Our practice also takes an integrative approach to digestive health, incorporating gastroenterology, nutrition, and functional medicine when appropriate. Treatment recommendations are tailored to your individual needs and may include dietary and lifestyle changes, hydration guidance, fiber recommendations, medications, or additional diagnostic testing.
Patients in Katy, Houston, and surrounding communities can access comprehensive gastroenterology care for constipation and other digestive concerns.
Constipation FAQs
What causes constipation?
Constipation can be caused by a variety of factors, including a diet low in fiber, inadequate fluid intake, physical inactivity, changes in routine, delaying bowel movements, and certain medications. It can also be associated with gastrointestinal, neurological, or endocrine conditions.
What are the symptoms of constipation?
Common symptoms include having fewer bowel movements than usual, hard or dry stools, difficulty or straining during bowel movements, a feeling of incomplete evacuation, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. Symptoms can vary from person to person.
When should I see a gastroenterologist for constipation?
You should consider a medical evaluation if constipation is persistent, recurrent, or does not improve with appropriate dietary and lifestyle measures. You should seek prompt medical attention if constipation occurs with severe abdominal pain, vomiting, significant abdominal swelling, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, or an inability to pass stool or gas.
How is constipation diagnosed?
Your gastroenterologist will review your symptoms, bowel habits, medications, diet, medical history, and other relevant factors. A physical examination may be performed, and additional testing such as blood tests, colonoscopy, or tests that evaluate bowel function may be recommended when appropriate.
Can diet and lifestyle changes help constipation?
Yes. Depending on the cause, increasing dietary fiber and fluids, maintaining regular physical activity, and responding promptly to the urge to have a bowel movement may help improve constipation. Dietary changes should be individualized, particularly if you have an underlying digestive condition.
What treatments are available for chronic constipation?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of your symptoms. Your healthcare provider may recommend dietary and lifestyle changes, fiber supplementation, or medications such as osmotic or stimulant laxatives when appropriate. Persistent constipation may require additional evaluation to identify an underlying condition.
Schedule a Constipation Evaluation in Katy, TX
If you are experiencing persistent or recurrent constipation, Katy Integrative Gastroenterology can help evaluate your symptoms and determine whether an underlying digestive condition or other factor may be contributing to your bowel difficulties.
Our gastroenterology team provides personalized digestive care for patients in Katy, Houston, and surrounding communities. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and learn more about constipation evaluation and treatment in Katy, TX.
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