Know About The Types Of Constipation And Their Treatments

Constipation is an uncomfortable and often frustrating condition that many of us face, sometimes without even realising it. Understanding the classification of constipation provides a clear scope and objective to address this common problem effectively. Whether triggered by lifestyle factors, medical conditions, or seasonal habits like those in winter, understanding the nuances of constipation is essential for relief and prevention.

Let’s delve into the types of constipation, explore how specific classifications influence treatment, and uncover practical solutions to make life more comfortable.

What are the types of constipation?

Constipation isn’t one-size-fits-all. Identifying the different types of constipation is the first step in addressing the root constipation causes and treatment effectively. There are two major types of constipation. Here’s a closer look at the different types of constipation and how they’re categorised:

1. Primary constipation

a. Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC)

• What it is: CIC occurs without a clear medical reason and is persistent over time.
• Causes: Often linked to poor dietary fibre intake, sedentary lifestyle, or stress.
• Impact on treatment: Focuses on long-term changes such as high-fibre diets, exercise, and possibly medications to stimulate bowel movements.

b. Functional Constipation

• What it is: This type is related to slow movement of stool through the colon without underlying structural or medical conditions.
• Causes: A diet low in fibre, dehydration, and ignoring the urge to pass stool.
• Impact on treatment: Often improved with lifestyle modifications and occasional use of laxatives.

c. Slow Transit Constipation

• What it is: A condition where bowel movements are infrequent due to sluggish colon activity.
• Causes: Neurological conditions or disruptions in gut motility.
• Impact on treatment: May require prokinetic agents, a high-fibre diet, and targeted therapies like pelvic floor exercises.

d. Outlet Obstruction Constipation

• What it is: Difficulty passing stool due to issues with rectal muscles or anatomical obstructions.
• Causes: Rectal prolapse, anal fissures, or weakened pelvic floor muscles.
• Impact on treatment: Includes physical therapy, biofeedback, or surgery in severe cases.

2. Secondary Constipation

• What it is: Occurs as a result of underlying medical conditions or the side effects of certain medications. Unlike functional constipation, this type is directly linked to an identifiable cause that needs specific attention for effective management.

Causes:

a. Medical Conditions:

• Hypothyroidism: Reduced thyroid hormone levels slow down the metabolism, including digestive processes.
• Diabetes: Nerve damage caused by poorly managed diabetes can impair bowel function.
• Neurological Disorders: Conditions like Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis affect the nerves controlling bowel movements.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This condition can cause a mix of diarrhoea and constipation.
• Intestinal Blockages: Tumors, scar tissue, or other obstructions can prevent stool from passing.

b. Medications:

• Opioids: Frequently prescribed for pain, opioids can reduce bowel motility.
• Antidepressants: Tricyclic antidepressants and SSRIs may interfere with normal bowel function.
• Antacids: Those containing aluminium or calcium can lead to constipation.
• Iron Supplements: Commonly used for anaemia, they often harden stools.

How does the classification of constipation guide treatment?

The classification of constipation helps guide treatment strategies effectively, ensuring a targeted approach based on the underlying cause. If you're wondering, "How can I treat my constipation?", the strategies below offer tailored solutions:

Medications for constipation:

Here's a list of effective medications available at MrMed to help you find relief and restore digestive balance.

1. Dulcolax (Bisacodyl) – A stimulant laxative that works by stimulating the muscles of the bowel, helping to relieve constipation. It is widely used for short-term constipation relief.

2. Lactulose Syrup – An osmotic laxative that draws water into the colon, making stool softer and easier to pass. It’s often used for more chronic cases of constipation.

3. Movicol – A well-known brand for treating constipation, containing macrogol (Polyethylene glycol) that helps by retaining water in the stool, making it easier to pass.

4. Magmaxx 400mg Tablets – These tablets are commonly used to treat constipation by increasing the amount of water in the intestines to help soften stools and ease bowel movements.

5. Psyllium Husk (Isabgol) – A natural fibre supplement that helps bulk up stool, making it easier to pass. It's commonly recommended for functional constipation. Sofolyte 180gm Powder is one of the medications used.

What are the causes of frequent constipation?

Frequent constipation can stem from various factors:

1. Medications: Certain drugs, including pain relievers, some antacids, and antidepressants, can slow bowel movements as a side effect. If medication is a concern, consult a healthcare provider for alternative options.

2. Health conditions: Chronic illnesses like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diabetes, or hypothyroidism can interfere with normal digestion and contribute to constipation. Proper management of these conditions is essential for improving bowel health.

3. Dietary habits: Consuming a diet low in fibre, such as white bread, processed snacks, and cheese, can slow bowel movements by providing insufficient bulk to the stool. Fibre-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, and veggies help maintain regularity and should be included in daily meals.

4. Hydration: Drinking inadequate amounts of water leads to hard, dry stools that are very difficult to pass. Staying hydrated softens stools, promoting smoother bowel movements and preventing constipation.

5. Lack of exercise: Physical inactivity can reduce intestinal motility, slowing down digestion. Regular activities like walking or yoga help stimulate bowel function and encourage regularity.

6. Stress: Chronic stress disrupts gut-brain communication, often resulting in slower digestive processes. Managing stress can improve overall gut health.

How does winter affect constipation?

Winter and constipation often go hand in hand due to seasonal changes in lifestyle and environmental factors that impact the digestive system. Here's a deeper look at how the colder months can contribute to this uncomfortable condition:

1. Reduced Water Intake

In winter, people tend to feel less thirsty, leading to a reduction in water intake. This can result in dehydration, which hardens stools and makes them more difficult to pass. Adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining stool consistency and promoting regular bowel movements. Scientifically, water helps soften stool by being absorbed in the colon. Without sufficient water, the stool becomes dry and hard, increasing the risk of constipation.

2. Comfort Food Cravings

The cold weather often triggers cravings for high-fat, low-fibre "comfort foods" like creamy soups, cheesy dishes, and baked goods. While these foods provide warmth and satisfaction, they lack the dietary fibre necessary to support healthy digestion. Fibre is vital because it adds bulk to stools and helps them pass more easily through the intestines. The absence of fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains slows down gut transit time, leading to sluggish bowel movements.

3. Decreased Physical Activity

Shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures can discourage outdoor activities and exercise. Physical activity stimulates the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, promoting peristalsis, the wave-like motion that moves stool through the intestines. Without regular exercise, gut motility slows down, increasing the likelihood of constipation. Studies have shown that even light activities, such as walking, can enhance bowel regularity.

4. Dry Air and Dehydration

Winter air, exacerbated by indoor heating, is typically dry and can dehydrate the body. When the body is dehydrated, it prioritises conserving water for essential functions, often at the expense of bowel hydration. This can result in harder stools and a slower digestive process. Additionally, the mucosal lining of the intestines relies on proper hydration to function effectively, further highlighting the impact of dry conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How to avoid hard stools?

To avoid hard stools, prioritise a high-fibre diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep stools soft. Regular physical activity also supports smooth digestion. Avoid excessive processed foods that can slow digestion. Lastly, don't ignore the urge to go to the bathroom to prevent stool from hardening.

2. What simple trick empties your bowels immediately?

A simple trick to empty your bowels quickly is to drink a glass of warm water, especially in the morning. The warmth can stimulate the digestive system and help get things moving. Additionally, gentle exercise, like walking or stretching, can encourage bowel movement by increasing intestinal motility. Eating high-fibre foods like fruits or drinking a small amount of prune juice may also help promote regularity. However, if constipation is persistent, it's important to consult a doctor for proper treatment.

3. Is banana good for constipation?

Yes, bananas can be helpful for constipation. They contain a type of fibre called pectin, which can aid in bowel movements by absorbing water and helping to soften stools. Bananas also have a high potassium content, which can support the healthy functioning of muscles in the digestive system. However, for some people, especially those with chronic constipation, unripe bananas may cause a temporary slow-down in digestion due to their higher starch content. It’s best to choose ripe bananas to reap the benefits for constipation relief.

4. What is the best medicine for constipation?

Many people ask, 'What is the treatment of constipation?', and the answer lies in a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and, in some cases, medications tailored to the underlying cause.

For gentle relief, fibre supplements like psyllium can add bulk to stools and promote regularity. If you're looking for something to soften hard stools, stool softeners such as docusate might be the answer. For more immediate relief, laxatives like polyethylene glycol help draw water into the intestines, while stimulant laxatives (like bisacodyl) encourage bowel movement.

What to keep in mind

Constipation may be common, but it doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. By understanding the types, causes, and solutions for constipation, you can take control of your digestive health and feel better every day! Whether it’s adding fibre to your diet, drinking more water, or seeking medical advice for persistent issues, small changes can make a significant difference.

Read more

1. Foods that cause constipation
2. Home remedies for constipation
3. Diet plan for constipation
4. Medicines that may cause constipation

References

1. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/constipation/treatment
2. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation/
3. https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/constipation-relief-tips
4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3170709/

Note: This blog offers general information and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before altering your diet, exercise, or medication, especially with existing health conditions. Treatment effectiveness can vary, so seek personalised guidance from a healthcare provider.