Constipation is a symptom rather than a disease, generally defined as bowel movements that occur three or fewer times a week and are difficult to pass.

It is one of the most common digestive complaints in the United States. Constipation is typically a chronic condition. New and rapid-onset constipation in older people may suggest an obstruction in the gastrointestinal tract.

A person with constipation may also experience abdominal pain, painful defecation, rectal bleeding, episodes of diarrhea or lower back pain.

Some people may develop such severe constipation that they require manual removal of the stool from the lower gastrointestinal tract by a medical professional.

Patients who have constipation along with abdominal pain, inability to pass gas, fever, vomiting or bleeding from the rectum should seek immediate medical care.

Managing constipation

Initial management of constipation involves dietary changes and exercise. Dietary changes include increasing intake of fiber and fluids while decreasing the use of constipating agents (for example, milk products, coffee, tea and alcohol). Constipation should not be ignored, and people with constipation should contact their medical provider.

What is a squatty potty?

A squatty potty is a stool that raises your knees above your hips to put you in a squat-like position when you are having a bowel movement.

The lower bowel is “kinked” when a person sits on a toilet. That forces you to work harder to push out stool. Squatting relaxes the puborectalis muscle more and straightens out the colon, giving stool a straight route out. As a result, bowel movements are produced with less straining.

This article is general information, not advice for your situation. Members can call the office with questions about their own care.