8 Causes of Constipation

Causes of constipation include the use of certain supplements or medications, pregnancy, lifestyle factors, and even a change in routine. Constipation can be a consequence of partially digested food moving too slowly through the colon. It's less often a sign of a bowel blockage.

Constipation is a common problem. Being constipated can lead to hard, dry, lumpy stools and difficulty passing stool. It usually means having fewer than three bowel movements in a week.

1. Diet

A diet low in fiber can lead to constipation. Not eating enough whole grains, fruits, or vegetables may cause difficult or irregular bowel movements.

Prepared and processed foods, such as frozen meals, fast food, and snacks, tend to be lower in fiber. If you are already constipated, you may want to avoid these or consume them less often.

Drinking enough water is also important for keeping regular bowel habits. People who do not drink enough fluids may experience constipation.

2. Dietary Supplements

Dietary supplements are natural products. They may include minerals, vitamins, herbs, or probiotics. Some evidence suggests that certain supplements like calcium may cause constipation.

It may be helpful to spread the dose throughout the day or take supplements with food if you develop constipation with calcium supplements. It may also be helpful to change the kind of calcium you take.

Iron is another potential culprit. One review found that taking iron may cause symptoms like constipation or diarrhea.

Multivitamins contain many vitamins and minerals. Some of these ingredients, such as calcium and iron, may cause constipation in some people.

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal disorder that can cause abdominal (belly) pain with changes in bowel habits. Some people find that bowel movements relieve their cramps. Others find that it makes it worse.

With IBS, you can have constipation, diarrhea, or both. You may have IBS with constipation, or IBS-C, if you have mostly hard stools. Some people have IBS with mixed bowel patterns. Their stool is sometimes hard, and sometimes it's loose.

It's unclear what causes IBS. Experts believe a connection between the brain and the gut may play a role.

4. Lack of Exercise

A sedentary lifestyle and not getting enough exercise can lead to constipation. Staying active is important if possible.

Staying in bed or being inactive for extended periods due to illness or recovery from surgery may also contribute to constipation. A healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help prevent constipation.

5. Medications

Several medications can cause constipation as a side effect, such as:

• Antacids with calcium or aluminum
• Diuretics
• Drugs that relieve muscle spasms (antispasmodics or anticholinergics)
• Medicines used to prevent seizures (anticonvulsants)
• Medicines used to treat Parkinson's disease
• Narcotic pain medicines
• Some antidepressants

6. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

The pelvic floor consists of muscles and tissue that support your pelvic organs, including your bladder and rectum. It can be difficult for stool to pass when the muscles and tissues in the pelvic floor tighten or relax inappropriately. Retraining these muscles through physical therapy can help.

7. Pregnancy

Constipation is common in pregnancy, especially toward the end. One possible reason is high levels of hormones during pregnancy. These hormones can slow digestion and relax muscles in the bowel, which makes you feel constipated.

Another factor is an expanding uterus. As it stretches during pregnancy, the uterus can put pressure on the bowel, slowing down bowel movements.

8. Routine Changes

Disruptions to everyday routines, as well as changes that occur over time, can leave you feeling constipated. Consider the following possibilities if your bowel habits are different:

• Aging
• Effects of medication changes
• Meal-related changes, such as what you eat and how much
• Travel-related changes
  

When To Seek Care

You can treat many cases of constipation at home through diet, increased fiber, fluids, and medications like laxatives or stool softeners. It may be a good idea to reach out to a healthcare provider if you are constipated and have symptoms like:

• Belly pain
• Bloating
• Blood in your stool
• Nausea or vomiting
• No bowel movements in three days (and that's unusual for you)

Seek medical attention if you are aged 45 years or older and have constipation and chronic weight loss. These symptoms may be a sign of colorectal cancer.

A Quick Review

There are several causes of constipation. Taking supplements or medications can sometimes lead to discomfort. An underlying condition like IBS, pregnancy, lifestyle changes, or changes in your usual routine can also lead to constipation. Do not hesitate to seek help if you are uncomfortable or have symptoms that are concerning.