Chronic Constipation- Relief & Guide
We’ve all been there—that heavy, uncomfortable feeling in the abdomen, the bloating that makes your favorite clothes feel tight, and the frustration of spending way too much time in the washroom without any “success.”
In many Bengali households, talking about digestion is as common as discussing the weather, and a glass of warm water or a spoonful of isabgol is the standard response to a slow gut.
But what happens when the home remedies stop working? When days turn into weeks, and your bowel movements become a source of daily anxiety? This is where we cross the line into chronic constipation.
At Eskag Sanjeevani Hospitals, we meet many patients who have suffered in silence for months, thinking it’s just a lifestyle flaw. Today, we want to peel back the layers and understand the true chronic constipation meaning, why it happens, and most importantly, how to get rid of constipation for good.
Key Takeaways
- Chronic constipation is often a symptom of underlying issues like metabolic disorders or pelvic floor dysfunction rather than just a lack of fiber.
- Persistent warning signs like rectal bleeding, sudden weight loss, or severe abdominal pain should never be ignored, as they may indicate serious conditions.
- Effective management involves a mix of specialized diagnostic tests and personalized care from the best general physician in Kolkata to restore long-term gut health.
Chronic Constipation Meaning and Symptoms?
Before you can fix the problem, you need to understand the chronic constipation meaning. Medically, it isn’t just about “not going” every day. It is defined as having fewer than three bowel movements a week, or passing stools that are hard, dry, and difficult to expel for a period of three months or more.
If you are wondering if you are dealing with this, look out for these common constipation symptoms:
- Straining: Having to push excessively to pass stool.
- Lumpy or Hard Stools: The infamous “pebble-like” texture.
- Incomplete Evacuation: The nagging feeling that you didn’t quite finish.
- Abdominal Bloating: A visible swelling or a feeling of “tightness” in the belly.
- Manual Maneuvers: Sometimes, the blockage feels so physical that patients feel the need to use manual pressure to help things move.
When these constipation symptoms become your “new normal,” it is time to stop calling it a slow gut and start looking for a scientific solution.
The “Why” Behind the Wait: What Causes Constipation?
Understanding what causes constipation is like solving a puzzle. It’s rarely just one thing. Broadly, the causes fall into two categories: lifestyle triggers and medical conditions.
1. Lifestyle Culprits
Our modern lives in Kolkata—sitting for long hours at office desks, eating out frequently, and forgetting to drink enough water—are major drivers. A diet low in fiber (fruits, veggies, whole grains) is the most common answer to what causes constipation. Without fiber to add “bulk,” your stool becomes small and hard.
2. The Role of Medications
Are you taking supplements for iron? Or perhaps medicine for high blood pressure? Many common drugs—including antacids containing aluminum, antidepressants, and even some pain relievers—can significantly slow down your digestive tract.
3. Medical and Structural Issues
Sometimes, the issue is deeper. Chronic constipation can be a side effect of metabolic problems like hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) or diabetes. It can also be linked to neurological conditions like Parkinson’s or even structural issues like a blockage in the colon.
At Eskag Sanjeevani, we use advanced diagnostics to rule out these “hidden” causes of chronic constipation to ensure we aren’t just treating the surface.
How to Get Rid of Constipation: Science-Backed Relief
If you are tired of the “trial and error” method at home, here is a structured approach on how to get rid of constipation based on medical expertise:
- The Fiber Ladder: Gradually increase your fiber intake to 25–30 grams daily. If you add it too fast, you’ll end up with more gas and bloating. Think of oats, papaya, and leafy greens.
- Hydration is Key: Fiber needs water to work. Without 8–10 glasses of water, fiber can actually make your stool harder.
- The Squatting Position: Use a small footstool to raise your knees above your hips while on the toilet. This straightens the “bend” in your rectum, making it much easier for stool to pass.
- Bowel Training: Try to set a “toilet time” every morning, ideally 15 to 45 minutes after breakfast when the body’s natural reflexes are strongest.
If these lifestyle changes don’t work after two weeks, it is a clear sign you need to consult the best doctor for constipation to explore options like osmotic laxatives or stool softeners.
When to Seek Expert Help at Eskag Sanjeevani?
While constipation is usually a nuisance, it can occasionally be a warning sign of something serious. You should book an appointment with the best general physician in Kolkata or a gastroenterologist immediately if you notice:
- Rectal Bleeding: Seeing blood on the tissue or in the stool.
- Sudden Weight Loss: Losing kilos without trying.
- Severe Pain: Intense cramping that doesn’t go away after passing gas.
- Vomiting: If you are constipated and unable to keep food down, it could be a bowel obstruction.
Heal, Recover and Renew with Eskag Sanjeevani
At Eskag Sanjeevani Hospitals, your health is managed by a dedicated team of over 350 medical professionals across multiple units in Kolkata, including Baghbazar, Baranagar, and Khardah.
Whether you need a routine check-up with a general physician or specialized care in fields like Cardiology, Nephrology, or Gastroenterology, you will find highly experienced doctors—many with over 30 years of expertise—ready to support you. Eskag Sanjeevani hospitals are well-regarded for making quality healthcare accessible. We offer 24/7 emergency services, advanced diagnostic labs, and life-saving treatments like dialysis and laparoscopic surgery at affordable rates.
We also accept government health schemes like Swasthya Sathi, and Eskag Sanjeevani ensures that every patient, from infants to seniors, receives compassionate and professional care in a family-friendly environment.
Whether you need a simple consultation with a best general physician in Kolkata or specialized intervention for a complex gastro issue, our doctors are dedicated to restoring your comfort and quality of life.
For some people, yes. However, if you are experiencing constipation symptoms like straining or hard stools, even “regular” frequency can still be chronic constipation.
Using stimulant laxatives daily can make your bowel “lazy,” meaning it might forget how to move on its own. Always consult the best doctor for constipation before starting long-term medication.
Papaya, pears, and prunes are excellent. They contain fiber and natural compounds that act as gentle stimulants for a slow gut.
Changes in your routine, diet, and even the “stress” of a new environment can trigger chronic constipation. Staying hydrated and keeping a routine can help.
Absolutely. The gut and brain are connected. High stress can slow down the transit time of stool, leading to chronic constipation.
Your doctor may recommend one if you have “red flags” like blood in stool, weight loss, or if you are over 45-50 years old with a sudden change in bowel habits.