When Should You Seek Medical Help for Constipation?

Constipation is a common issue that can often be managed with home remedies and lifestyle changes. However, in certain situations, it may be indicative of a more severe underlying condition. This article provides guidelines on when you should seek medical assistance for your constipation.

Recognizing When to Seek Help

Routine constipation is fairly common, and it can be managed with simple home remedies and lifestyle adjustments. However, persistent or severe constipation may signal the need for medical attention. Here are some signs that you should consult a healthcare professional:

Duration and Symptoms

Medical attention should be considered if constipation persists for several weeks. Along with duration, the following symptoms are cause for concern:

Severe abdominal pain Bleeding in the stool Unexplained weight loss A sudden change in bowel habits, especially in individuals over the age of 50

It's also advisable to seek help if home remedies and lifestyle changes have not provided relief.

Professional Help Suggested

Healthybeing BioPhysiotherapy in Gurgaon offers advanced therapies to address constipation. For more detailed and thorough assistance, contact their clinic for a consultation:

Location: 342P Basement, Near Medanta Hospital, Sector 38 Market Gate 1, Gurgaon, Haryana 122001 Contact: 01244002733

Other At-Home Remedies

If soap suds enemas do not work, consider over-the-counter options like Fleet enemas, which are easy to use and usually provide quick relief. However, if your condition continues, it is crucial to seek medical advice.

Severe Cases

When constipation lingers for more than three weeks, it's important to get a check-up to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Additionally, you should consult a doctor in the following scenarios:

If you have never experienced constipation before If you have persistent stomach pain If you notice blood in your stools If you are losing weight without trying to

Very severe cases, such as those leading to bowel obstruction or other complications, can be life-threatening. It is important to take action.
Read more about these symptoms and their implications in the following video:
How to Treat Constipation

Special Considerations

Although the duration of constipation can vary from person to person, the general consensus is that prolonged constipation beyond three days can be concerning. As WebMD highlights, a woman who died in the community due to severe constipation underscores the seriousness of the issue.
Here is a relevant quote from WebMD:
"The normal length of time between bowel movements varies widely from person to person. Some people have them three times a day. Others have them just a few times a week. Going longer than 3 or more days without one, though, is usually too long." - Nov 23, 2019

Conclusion

It is crucial to take constipation seriously, especially if it lasts for an extended period or is accompanied by any of the mentioned symptoms. Early intervention can prevent complications and achieve a better quality of life. If you find yourself in need of medical help, do not hesitate to seek it promptly.