Chronic vs Occasional Constipation: Key Differences You Should Know

What is Constipation?

Before we discuss chronic vs temporary constipation, let’s first know constipation. Constipation, in simpler terms, means facing a challenge with the smooth passage of stool, fewer than 3 bowel movements per week, and a feeling of incomplete emptying (evacuation) of the stomach. Though the condition is very common, it should not be treated as a minor issue.

Symptoms of Constipation   

• Less than 3 bowel movements in a week.

• Hardened, dry, or lumpy (poop) stool

• Painful passage of stool

• Blood in the stool

• Discomfort or pain in the stomach

• Weight loss.

The above-mentioned symptoms are similar for both temporary and chronic constipation. However, if you are experiencing the above-mentioned symptoms for more than three weeks, you must see a doctor to prevent further worsening of the condition.

Occasional Constipation

The term occasional constipation refers to temporary or short-term issues with bowel movements. The condition is very common, harmless, and may last from a few days to a week; almost everyone experiences it at some point in their life. Occasional Constipation usually occurs due to lifestyle changes, a few of which are mentioned below:

Causes of Occasional Constipation

Below are some of the common causes of occasional constipation

Change of routine: A change in time zone, not getting enough sleep, or any variation from the normal routine may lead to indigestion and slower bowel movement.

Change in Diet: Increased consumption of processed food and a lesser intake of dietary fiber (fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) can aid indigestion and slow down the movement in the gut, causing constipation.

Dehydration: Not drinking enough water or a lesser intake of fluid may cause the stool to harden and cause discomfort.

Stress and Hormonal Changes: Stress and certain hormonal changes in the body could also be reasons for slow bowel movements in the colon, causing constipation.

Medication: There are certain medications, such as antidepressants, hypertension, and pain relief drugs, that may cause constipation.

Ignoring Urge: Ignoring or holding back the urge to use the washroom may also cause the stool to harden. 

Preventive Measures

• Include plenty of veggies, fruits, and whole grains in your diet, as they are high in fiber and support digestion.

• Drinking a lot of water and increasing fluid intake will help soften the stool.

• Stick to a consistent washroom routine, and do not ignore the urge whenever it arises.

• Engage in regular physical exercise, which would increase bowel movement.

• Limit alcohol consumption and caffeine intake, as they lead to dehydration and may cause constipation.

• Practise deep breathing or meditation to minimize stress and maintain hormonal balance.

What is Chronic Constipation?

A person is said to be suffering from chronic constipation if they have been experiencing slowed bowel movement, pain while passing stool, bloody stool, and dependence on laxatives for more than three months. Chronic constipation could occur due to an underlying health condition and requires a doctor’s intervention for relief. The doctor may even recommend a colonoscopy or other tests to determine the root cause and suggest a suitable treatment option.

Causes of Chronic Constipation

Weakened Pelvic Floor Muscle: The muscles in the pelvic area play an important role in bowel movement, and incoordination may result in chronic constipation.

Abnormality in the Colon: Any abnormality, such as damage or blockage in the colon or the rectum, may cause obstruction in the smooth passage of stool.

Health Conditions: There are various health conditions that may lead to chronic constipation, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, dementia, pregnancy, Parkinson’s, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), etc.

Serious Complications:

It is important that if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms of chronic constipation, you must see a medical expert at the earliest, as it may lead to a serious condition such as:

• Haemorrhoids (Swollen tissues around the tissues)

• Anal Fissure (Damaged or torn tissues around the anus)

• Fecal Impaction (Dry or hardened stool being held back in the colon)

• Rectal Prolapse (Rectal Tissues pushing out of the anal opening)

Treatments for Chronic Constipation

In addition to the preventive measures mentioned for occasional constipation, undertaking the treatment options mentioned below in consultation with the doctor would be beneficial for chronic constipation.

• Use of over-the-counter stool softeners or laxatives.

• Use of probiotics and fibre supplements such as Psyllium

• Prescription medication, enema, and suppositories.

• In case an enema does not yield positive results, the medical care may recommend Disimpaction (breaking down hardened stool for easier excretion).

• In more serious cases, doctors may recommend undergoing surgery, such as a colectomy or Sacral Nerve Modulation (SNM). SNM involves implanting a device that sends electrical signals to the nerves controlling bowel movements to increase bowel activity.

Conclusion

Constipation refers to reduced bowel movement accompanied by pain or blood; it may be short-term or chronic (ongoing). Irrespective of whether constipation is occasional or chronic, it can be very discomforting, leading to anxiety, uneasiness, and may disrupt your daily life. Occasional constipation is very common and deemed harmless, as they mostly occur due to an alteration in lifestyle and wean off as the situation gets better. On the other hand, chronic constipation is when an individual has a tough time passing stool and relies on laxatives for over a month. The condition requires medical care, and if left ignored or untreated, it may damage the colon, the tissues around the rectum, and further worsen the condition.

Constipation may be prevented by lifestyle modifications, such as cutting down on processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol; increasing dietary fiber intake; drinking plenty of water; staying physically active; managing stress; and using the lavatory whenever there is an urge. These slight yet effective modifications go a long way in managing constipation. However, if you still have discomfort, reach out for medical help. The doctor may recommend other treatments, such as OTC medications, laxatives, enemas, Disimpaction, colectomy, and Sacral Nerve Modulation (SNM), depending on the severity of the condition. So consult a professional if you have been experiencing trouble with bowel movements, as this can prevent further complications, relieve your discomfort, and help you lead a quality life.