Diagnosing the cause of chronic constipation is the first step in creating a treatment plan to deal with the discomfort. Experts at the Mayo Clinic explain that medication, pain management, modifying habits and surgery are typical treatment options for chronic constipation. The clinic also points out that most patients with constipation have no underlying medical condition but those who do actually have secondary constipation, a side effect of another health concern.
Colon Stricture
A colon stricture is a mass of tissue or other type of obstruction. When the obstruction blocks the passing of waste, constipation is the result. The same effect can occur when the individual has pelvic floor dysfunction, which is a term that describes poor muscle control. The individual may strain too hard to have a bowel movement because the muscles do not relax appropriately, says the Mayo Clinic.
Rectal Cancer
Rectal cancer and cancer of the lower digestive tract can lead to chronic constipation. The cancer can cause the digestive system to function slower than normal or some parts may not work at all, resulting in constipation. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) elaborates that any cancer or dysfunction of one part of the digestive system can cause the whole thing to function inadequately.
Ignoring the Urge
Rectal pain or discomfort during a bowel movement due to such problems as anal fissures or hemorrhoids can cause constipation. Anal fissures are small cuts in the very sensitive tissues of the anus and lower rectal tract. These can be painful and even bleed. The NDDIC explains that ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can cause constipation. Children may find the sensation of passing stool to be uncomfortable and decide to avoid it as long as possible. This can occur after a case of diarrhea or constipation because the child has developed anxiety over having another painful bowel movement.
Habits
Some daily habits, such as diet and exercise, contribute to poor digestive health. Inadequate intake of water and fiber can slow the digestive process. Eating too much fiber and not drinking enough water can have the same effect. Overusing laxatives may cause dependency, where the body is unable to pass stool without strain or discomfort. The NDDIC explains that inadequate physical activity, especially in the elderly, can contribute to constipation.
Metabolic Disturbances
Experts at the Mayo Clinic explain that metabolic disturbances, such as hypercalcemia, hypothyroidism (overactive thyroid) and diabetes, can lead to chronic constipation. These conditions are the result of too much of something in the body, such as too much calcium in hypercalcemia and too much sugar with diabetes.
Medications
Some medications that are used long-term may have a side effect of constipation. Experts at the Mayo Clinic explains that narcotic medications are especially susceptible to this side effect.
Colonic Dysmotility
Colonic dysmotility is a condition where the nerves and muscles work in a dysfunctional manner, say experts at the Mayo Clinic. The dysfunction leads to a slowed processing of the waste and materials in the digestive tract.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition where a patient has an abnormal sensitivity to foods and stress. IBS leads to bouts of diarrhea and constipation depending on the individual's digestive system.
