It can involve feeling like not all the stool has been eliminated.
For some people, there could be more than one cause.
Constipation can either occur every so often or be chronic.
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Here are some of the more common causes of not being able to pass stool.
Diabetes
Constipation is a common problem for people who live withdiabetes.
Diabetes can cause the muscles in the intestines to be less effective at moving stool through.
Its important for people with diabetes to seek care for constipation.
Understanding the causes is important for developing a treatment plan.
This can cause a variety of symptoms.
If this tissue is found in or near the bowel, it could contribute to constipation.
This is because the growth of the tissue may compress or partially block part of the bowel.
Complete obstructions, however, are uncommon.
Travel
Some people develop constipationwhile traveling.
The change in routine can lead to a disruption in the digestive system.
Even the most experienced and conscientious travelers can find they are backed up for a time.
Drinking enough liquids is also important.
Eating a lot of fiber without drinking enough water could worsen constipation.
High-Protein Diets
Eating a diet high in animal protein may lead to digestive issues.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy brings many physical changes that could lead to constipation.
Pregnant people are at risk of not eating enough fiber and of becoming dehydrated.
Its also thought that hormonal changes could lead to the digestive system slowing down.
This might be more common in the first and second trimesters.
Being less active might also contribute to constipation during pregnancy.
Plus, the fetus compressing the digestive organs, especially in late pregnancy, could also cause constipation.
Dehydration
Fluids are important to keeping stool moving through the large intestine.
Without enough fluid, stool may become too hard and not move through easily.
Treatment may start with laxatives and an increase in fiber.
There are also prescription medications that might be tried under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Stress can also come from positive events, such as a new job or dating a new partner.
Whatever the reason, stress can have an effect on the digestive system.
For some people, this can mean constipation.
Getting back to routines and ensuring theres enough water and fiber in the diet may be helpful.
Some people may also want to consider stress-relieving practices such as yoga or meditation.
Medications
Medicines can cause constipation.
Opioids are probably the most commonly known cause of drug-induced constipation, but there are many others as well.
These weakened areas look like bulges or outpouchings in the intestine.
They usually don’t cause any issues.
However, if they become inflamed, it is calleddiverticulitis.
It’s thought that about half of people who have diverticulitis are also experiencing constipation.
Diverticulitis can be painful and also cause other digestive symptoms.
It’s important to get medical attention if you suspect you have developed diverticulitis.
Other Health Conditions
Several other health conditions may lead to constipation.
This could be due to how the condition affects the body or as a side effect of treatments.
Still Cant Poop After Laxatives
Relieving and preventing constipation may take several steps.
It may help to begin with less invasive home remedies before moving on to other methods.
Many people start with over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, including laxatives and stool softeners.
Most laxatives and stool softeners can be used for the long term.
They tend to work fairly quickly.
Several different forms are available to treat hard stools.
But laxatives dont always work.
In this case, you may have chronic constipation.
Or, your constipation could be severe enough that more intensive methods are needed to resolve it.
People should seek help from a healthcare provider if lifestyle changes and laxatives arent working.
Posture on the Toilet
Sitting on the toilet hunched over may not be optimal to relieve constipation.
For some people, sitting with their feet elevated may help in having an easier bowel movement.
Footstools are marketed to elevate the feet while on the toilet.
This may be a better position for some people who are experiencing constipation.
Pain From Chronic Constipation
Constipation can cause pain.
The pain could be from bloating in the abdomen.
It could also be in the rectum or bottom from straining to have a bowel movement.
There could also be lower back pain.
Constipation can be associated with developinghemorrhoidsor even a tear in the anal canal (afissure).
These might need more treatment, and a healthcare provider can help.
Fiber supplements (which are also called bulk-forming laxatives) may be the next step.
They work by bringing more water into the stool.
Some people may need to try a few different forms to make it find the right one for them.
They can cause symptoms like bloating at first, so read the instructions on how to start.
They may take a day or more to work.
These products draw water into the stool and make them easier to pass.
Some brands of stool softener laxatives include:
The next step may be stimulant laxatives.
However, they can become habit-forming.
Some common brands include:
Your healthcare provider may also recommend using a tap water enema.
With enemas, its important to following product directions.
Enemas can also be habit-forming, so theyre not for use long-term in relieving constipation.
Prescription medications can be used to relieve constipation.
A healthcare provider will help in sorting out the reason for the constipation and determining the treatment.
The treatment might look like changes to diet and lifestyle.
Diet, lifestyle, andlaxativesmight not help with these issues.
People of all sexes have a pelvic floor, so this cause of constipation can happen to anyone.
A specialist healthcare provider that administers pelvic floor therapy might be needed.
When to Notify Healthcare Provider of Symptoms
Constipation is common.
It may resolve on its own or with some changes that people can make themselves at home.
Some people may also find temporary relief with different forms of laxatives.
Some signs and symptoms related to constipation are a reason to seek care right away.
These can include:
Summary
Constipation is a common problem.
It is usually short-lived and will improve with diet and lifestyle changes.
For some, the use of bulk-forming laxatives or stool softeners may help handle the problem.
Preventing constipation will be important to those who tend to experience it more frequently.
Severe pain or blood in the stool are some of the symptoms to seek care right away for constipation.
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