Bowel patterns vary from person to person. Some individuals have regular daily bowel movements, while others have them every two or three days. When bowel movements do not occur after three days, however, constipation may be an issue. Constipation can also be characterized by painful bowel movements and hard or dry stool. Chronic constipation is often the result of a condition like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other complications. Constipation is not healthy and can be dangerous, resulting in anal fissures, intestinal obstruction or lazy bowel syndrome.
Anal Fissure
An anal fissure is described as a rip in the thin, moist tissue that lines the rectum. Anal fissure are common among infants. Approximately 80 percent experience an anal fissure by their first birthday, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Adults with chronic constipation are at risk for anal fissures as well as women who have recently given birth and those with Crohn's disease.
Intestinal Obstruction
With chronic constipation, feces can become impacted (hardened and compressed in the body), leading to an intestinal obstruction. An intestinal obstruction is a serious condition in which a blockage occurs in the colon or small intestine, inhibiting food and fluid from passing through. Signs and symptoms of an intestinal obstruction include pain in the abdomen, nausea, vomiting and distended abdomen (swollen or protruding). The condition should be treated promptly, as serious complications like tissue death, perforation of the intestine and infection can occur, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Lazy Bowel Syndrome
Occasional constipation is normal and can be the result of a change in diet, lack of fiber or exercise. Travel or other changes in your routine can also cause you to delay bowel movements, leading to constipation. Occasionally, laxatives are a sensible solution for relieving constipation. Chronic constipation that is frequently treated with laxatives, however, can lead to a serious complication known as Lazy bowel syndrome. Lazy bowel syndrome can cause poor bowel function as your bowels rely on the aid of laxatives to achieve bowel movements. Other problems caused by overusing laxatives include insufficient absorption of vitamins and nutrients and damage to the intestinal tract, according to the Mayo Clinic. Limit the use of laxatives and consider making other changes to help alleviate constipation. If you must use a laxative, the Mayo Clinic maintains the safest choices are fiber supplements that are taken with water.
