Chronic Constipation

Chronic constipation is caused by a number of factors including:

• Lifestyle & dietary factors: Low fibre intake, dehydration, and lack of physical activity
• Underlying medical conditions: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Hypothyroidism, diabetes, neurological disorders
• Medications: Pain medications, antacids, anti-depressants, blood pressure medications
• Structural issues: Obstructions, slow transit, weak pelvic floor muscles, anal fissures, narrowing of the colon

While mild to moderate constipation can be managed at home with simple dietary changes and hydration, chronic constipation requires expert intervention. Resolution starts with the diagnosis of the type and severity of constipation and its underlying causes. Based on the diagnosis, the doctor will use a combination of medical treatments and targeted interventions to restore normal bowel function.

If you have chronic constipation, you should include:

• High fibres in the form of whole grains, legumes, leafy greens, and fruits to add bulk and soften the stools.
• Probiotics such as yogurt
• Hydration as fibres work only if you drink enough water or they simply worsen the blockage.

If you have chronic constipation, you should avoid:

• • Low fibre diets particularly fast foods, fried foods, and processed foods.
  • Dairy products
  • Red meat and processed meat
  • Alcohol and caffeine

Yes. Chronic constipation is more than just an inconvenience; it can lead to serious physical damage like:

• Haemorrhoids & anal fissures
• Faecal impaction (piling up of faecal matter in the anus and rectum)
• Stress urinary incontinence
• Rectal prolapse
• Diverticulitis (infections of small pouches in the colon wall)

Consult an experienced gastroenterologist like Dr. Rajiv Grover, if you notice any of these warning signs:

• Symptoms lasting for more than 3 weeks
• Rectal bleeding/ blood in stools
• Change in colour or shape of stools
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe abdominal pain/ cramping
• Constant fatigue/ weakness

If you have a family history of colon cancer or other gastrointestinal disorders, you should consult a doctor for an early screening of chronic constipation.

Generally, no, not without proper medical supervision. Over-the-counter stimulant laxatives can lead to Cathartic Colon, where the bowel becomes overly dependent on the drug to move at all. Dr. Rajiv Grover focuses on using osmotic laxatives or prokinetic medications that are safer for long-term management and help restore the natural rhythm of your gut.

Dr. Rajiv Grover, an accomplished gastroenterologist and endoscopy specialist in the Ludhiana region, focuses on the multidimensional management of chronic constipation. He leverages personalized, targeted therapies, root cause remediation, dietary modification, and lifestyle optimization to help restore normal bowel functions. Using lab tests, imaging tests, colonoscopy, and colorectal transit studies, he identifies the underlying causes and the nature of chronic constipation.

Dr. Grover individualizes the treatment plan based on the nature and severity of the condition, as well as, underlying cause. The treatment plan to restore bowel function may include:

• Dietary and lifestyle changes

• • • High-fibre diets
    • Ample hydration
    • Scheduled, good bowel habits
    • Active lifestyle and exercise

• Medicines

• • Prescription constipation medicines
  • Laxatives
  • Fibre supplements and probiotics
  • Stimulants & lubricants
  • Stool softeners
• Enema and suppository treatments by the doctor
• Surgical interventions in severe cases such as intestinal obstructions or strictures, rectal prolapse, and anal fissures.