Constipation at a Glance
Most common causes
- Low fibre or fluid intake
- Lack of activity
- Irregular routine
- Certain medicines
- Irritable bowel or other conditions
When to seek medical attention
- Blood in stools
- Unexplained weight loss
- A persistent change in bowel habits
- Severe abdominal pain
- Constipation alternating with diarrhoea
Specialist: Dr Reeshav Kankan Sarmah · Gastroenterology
What is Constipation?
Constipation means passing stools less often than usual, or having hard, dry stools that are difficult or uncomfortable to pass. It is extremely common and most often related to diet, low fluid intake, lack of activity or routine. In most cases it improves with simple changes. However, when constipation is persistent, or comes with a change in bowel habits, blood in the stools or weight loss, it should be evaluated to find the cause and rule out conditions that need specific treatment.
Common Causes
Low Fibre & Fluids
- • Hard stools
- • Linked to diet low in fibre or water
Inactivity & Routine
- • Worse with low activity or ignoring the urge to go
Medicines
- • Some medicines slow the bowel and cause constipation
Irritable Bowel / Other Conditions
- • Constipation with cramps or alternating with loose motions
Symptoms That Should Not Be Ignored
- ▸ Blood in the stools
- ▸ Unexplained weight loss
- ▸ A persistent, new change in bowel habits
- ▸ Severe abdominal pain or swelling
- ▸ Constipation alternating with diarrhoea
- ▸ Inability to pass stool or gas with pain (urgent)
How Doctors Evaluate Constipation
Your consultation may include: a history of your bowel habits, diet and medicines, examination of the abdomen, and tests such as blood tests or further investigations when warning signs are present or constipation persists. This finds the cause and guides effective, lasting treatment rather than ongoing laxative reliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Constipation Care in Guwahati
Patients from GS Road, Dispur, Beltola, Six Mile, Ganeshguri, Chandmari, Lalmati and Christian Basti can consult our Gastroenterology specialist at Healthwrx. Lasting relief close to home.
Related Pages
Common Questions
When is constipation a warning sign?
When it comes with blood in stools, weight loss, a persistent change in bowel habits, or severe abdominal pain.
Which doctor treats constipation?
A gastroenterologist diagnoses and treats persistent constipation and digestive problems.
Can constipation be cured?
Most constipation improves well with diet, lifestyle changes and treating any underlying cause.