Severe Constipation: Symptoms, Causes & Relief

Constipation is defined as the failure to have at least 3 bowel movements per week. Individuals with more than one week between bowel movements suffer from severe constipation.

Bloating

• When food is ingested and digested--yet not excreted--it forms a blockage in the colon. This blockage makes results in feeling full or bloated.

Abdominal Pain

• Blockage in the colon can cause pain in the abdomen and lead to nausea or vomiting. The blockage increases in size as more food is ingested.

Straining

• Bowel movements require straining in order to pass the stool. The stool is often dry and hard; therefore, it is unable to be passed without force.

Hemorrhoids

• When pressure is applied to the anal canal, veins become swollen and develop into hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids can be internal or external.

Rectal Bleeding

• Significant pressure during bowel movements can result in bleeding. Tears in the skin around the anus as well as hemorrhoids may bleed.