Constipation is something almost every adult experiences at some point in life, especially with today’s busy, stressful lifestyles. Even though it’s common, persistent constipation can create discomfort, affect productivity, and lead to complications like piles or fissures. According to the digestive health experts at Apex Multispeciality Hospital, Kalewadi, understanding what triggers constipation and knowing simple, quick solutions can help you manage it effectively.
Let’s explore the most common causes of constipation in adults and the best ways to find relief quickly.
What Is Constipation?
Constipation means difficulty passing stool or having fewer bowel movements than usual. For many adults, this may include:
- Passing hard or dry stools
- Straining during bowel movements
- Feeling bloated or heavy
- Going to the toilet fewer than 3 times a week
While occasional constipation is normal, frequent or long-lasting constipation should not be ignored.
Common Triggers of Constipation in Adults:
Constipation doesn’t happen overnight—it’s usually caused by daily habits, diet choices, or underlying medical issues. Here are the most common triggers:
- Low-Fibre Diet: Modern eating habits include more junk food, refined grains, and snacks, and less vegetables or fruits. Low fibre makes stools dry and hard to pass.
- Not Drinking Enough Water: Adults often stay busy and forget to drink water. Less fluid in the body means harder stools and slower bowel movement.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Long working hours, sitting continuously, and no physical exercise affect digestion and slow down intestinal movement.
- Skipping Meals or Irregular Eating: Erratic meal timings confuse the digestive system, leading to sluggish bowel functions.
- Ignoring the Urge to Pass Stool: Many adults suppress the urge due to work, travel, or morning rush. Over time, this weakens natural bowel reflexes.
- Stress & Anxiety: Mental stress directly impacts gut function. Adults with stressful jobs or personal responsibilities often face constipation.
- Medications: Certain medicines slow bowel movement:
- Painkillers
- Calcium-rich antacids
- Iron supplements
- Blood pressure medicines
- Antidepressants
Doctors at Apex Multispeciality Hospital frequently identify medication as a hidden cause.
- Hormonal or Medical Conditions: Constipation can also be a symptom of:
- Thyroid imbalance
- Diabetes
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Neurological disorders
A proper medical check-up is required when constipation is linked to these conditions.
Quick Solutions to Relieve Constipation in Adults:
If you’re dealing with constipation, here are simple, effective, and doctor-approved solutions:
- Increase Fiber Intake: Add more of these to your daily diet:
- Fruits: papaya, banana, apple, guava
- Vegetables: spinach, beans, carrots
- Whole grains: dalia, oats, brown rice
- Seeds: chia seeds, flaxseeds
Fiber helps soften stool and improves bowel movement.
- Drink More Water: Adults should ideally drink 8–10 glasses a day. Hydration helps keep stools soft and easy to pass.
- Stay Physically Active: A short walk after meals, morning exercise, or yoga boosts bowel function. Even 20 minutes can make a difference.
- Do Not Delay Going to the Toilet: Listening to your body is essential. Respond to the urge immediately, especially in the morning.
- Limit Processed & Oily Foods: Cut down on:
- Fast food
- Oily snacks
- Excess tea/coffee
- Highly refined flour (maida)
These slow digestion and worsen constipation.
- Try Natural Home Remedies:
- A teaspoon of ghee at night (helps digestion naturally)
- Soaked raisins
- Warm lemon water
These remedies are safe and work well for mild constipation.
Warm water in the morning
- Manage Stress: Practice meditation, breathing exercises, or spend time doing relaxing activities. A calm mind supports a healthy gut.
- Consult a Doctor for Persistent Issues: If constipation continues for more than 2–3 weeks, or if you notice blood in the stool, it’s important to see a specialist.
The gastroenterology team at Apex Multispeciality Hospital, Kalewadi offers advanced evaluation and personalised treatment for chronic constipation.
When Constipation Becomes a Warning Sign?
You should seek medical attention if you notice:
- Severe stomach pain
- Blood during bowel movement
- Sudden weight loss
- Persistent vomiting or nausea
- Very thin, ribbon-like stools
- Constipation lasting more than 3 weeks
These may indicate an underlying condition requiring immediate care.
How Apex Multispeciality Hospital Helps Adults with Constipation?
Apex Hospital offers expert care for digestive disorders with:
- Experienced gastroenterologists
- Advanced diagnostic facilities like blood tests, thyroid tests, colon evaluation
- Personalized diet & lifestyle counselling
- Safe, effective medical treatments
- A holistic approach to long-term relief
Whether constipation is due to lifestyle, medication, or a medical condition, Apex ensures the right treatment at the right time.
Conclusion:
Constipation in adults is extremely common, but it should never be ignored. Most triggers—like poor diet, dehydration, stress, or irregular lifestyle—can be corrected with simple changes. However, if symptoms persist, worsen, or cause discomfort, it’s best to consult a specialist.
The expert team at Apex Multispeciality Hospital, Kalewadi helps adults get long-term relief through accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment, and supportive care.
📞 Book an Appointment at Apex Multispeciality Hospital
Don’t let constipation affect your daily life. Get expert guidance and effective treatment from our gastro specialists today.
