Can Constipation Be Serious

Constipation is caused when the contents of the colon become hard and difficult to excrete. The causes of constipation are many but most of them are not serious. Some causes however are very serious and can be fatal if untreated. It can also lead to complications that damage the body’s proper functioning. Constipation being a common affliction is often ignored. The damage however does not happen instantly. It happens over a period of time and leads to potentially life threatening conditions like septicemia due to build up of toxins.

Understanding the Seriousness of Constipation

Constipation is not seen as the disease itself but as a symptom. It can be caused due to improper diet or something as serious as cancer. Since it can be due to a life threatening condition, high risk group individuals should not ignore it, especially when other symptoms like weight loss and fever also accompany constipation. Individuals older than 50 years are not just prone to constipation; they are also at high risk of colon diseases. It helps to use a colon cleans to rid the body of dangerous waste. When it becomes clear that medication and diet correction is not working, investigatory procedures like colonoscopy and barium studies are carried out. Once the condition is understood, a prognosis assessment is made.

Complications of Constipation

1. Constipation can cause bowel rupture due to excess straining. When wastes have been accumulating, the large intestine is pressurized. This can lead to strain and eventually a breakdown. Stools with blood are a sign of injury in the colon.

2. Any tear or injury that results can become infected if it does not heal properly. This is more likely to happen in immune compromised individuals. In diabetics this is a serious problem as wound healing takes time and lead to septic wounds.

3. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus region. Due to constant straining, they swell. This is a very painful condition and in severe cases, an individual cannot even sit without risking rupture. Passing of stools can cause excruciating pain. Again complications are more severe in those with reduced platelet counts and reduced immunity.

4. Build up of toxins – Blockage in the colon can result in collection of wastes. Since the body is not able to get rid of its waste, they can get into the blood stream and poison the body. Such a condition has a high chance of metabolic collapse and can cause death.

5. Constipation commonly causes bloating and stomach cramps. It can cause coating of the tongue, foul breath and malaise. It has also been linked to mood changes and depression. These are less severe symptoms of constipation and in most cases not considered to be serious.

6. Constipation treatments can also worsen the condition. Laxatives are only a temporary solution. When used for longer than necessary, they have an addictive effect on the body’s excretory system making it difficult to withdraw medication.

7. Consuming fiber supplements without adequate fluid intake can lead to blockage. Fiber can form a mass if it does not absorb enough water. Hence, before taking fiber supplements, a dietician should be consulted.