Constipation is usually a mild health issue that can resolve on its own or with home remedies. However, in some cases, it can indicate a more serious health condition that requires immediate attention. When does constipation become an emergency, and how do we recognize the signs? Check out the following article. 

What is constipation?

Constipation is a condition that makes it difficult to have a bowel movement. You are considered constipated if you have fewer than three bowel movements per week. Keep in mind that bowel movement patterns can vary widely from person to person; some people may have more than two bowel movements each day and still be perfectly normal.

No matter what your usual pattern is, it is unique to you and considered normal as long as it does not significantly deviate from what you typically experience.

Common signs of constipation include:

• Dry and hard stools
• Difficulty straining to pass stool
• Feeling of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement

When to see a doctor for constipation

While constipation can be uncomfortable, it is rarely dangerous. However, if you experience prolonged constipation along with other concerning symptoms, it is wise to consult a doctor. Ongoing constipation may indicate a serious condition that requires special treatment.

Warning signs that require medical attention:

Abdominal pain

Constipation often comes with abdominal pain. But if you experience constant pain, it may indicate other medical issues, such as:

• Appendicitis
• Hernia
• Pancreatitis
• Intestinal perforation
• Intestinal obstruction
• Mesenteric ischemia (blood flow blockage to the intestines)

Vomiting

If constipation is accompanied by vomiting, it could be a sign of fecal impaction, where large, hard stools become stuck in the colon. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical care.

Blood in the stool

Seeing blood in your stool indicates potential injury in the digestive tract down to the rectum. Conditions related to blood in the stool may include:

• Anal fissures (tears in the anus)
• Peptic ulcers
• Crohn's disease
• Colon or anal cancer

Fever

Constipation typically does not cause fever. If you have constipation along with a fever, it could indicate diverticulitis, which is the formation of diverticula (small pouches) in the colon. While these pouches are usually harmless, they can become inflamed or infected, potentially leading to a perforation in the colon.

Bloating

The longer stool remains in your abdomen, the more gas can accumulate in your digestive tract, leading to bloating. In severe cases, this can cause significant discomfort. This condition may indicate issues such as:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying)
• Overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine

Tips to relieve constipation

Chronic constipation, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, can be a sign of a serious condition. If you experience constipation along with any concerning signs mentioned above, consult a doctor. For mild constipation, consider making the following lifestyle changes:

• Stay hydrated: Increase your water intake
• Eat a high-fiber diet: Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity can promote healthy bowel movements
• Quit smoking: Smoking can contribute to digestive issues

If you have a digestive problem that does not improve within a few days, seek medical advice. You can also make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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