Signs And Symptoms Of Constipation

Constipation is not a disease and so, it does not have any unique symptoms. However the sign of a constipated bowel is straining when passing stools. Constipation itself is a symptom of several colonic and metabolic disorders.

Symptoms of Constipation

1. Painful Excretion

Painful excretion is a sign of constipation. Strained excretion causes the anal sphincter to stretch, resulting in tears which may bleed. In presence of hemorrhoids, the pain can become unbearable. Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in anal-rectal region. This swelling can obstruct stools and result in forceful excretion, causing rupture of these vessels. The pain however can be managed with pain killers and does not last long. Pain that does not respond to medication needs medical attention.

2. Bleeding

Bleeding from the anal rectal region can be due to many causes. If bleeding is mild, it is probably due to anal fissures or ruptured blood vessels. This kind of bleeding is painful but does not last long and might just be a few drops. Bleeding from the colon is a matter of greater concern. It could be due to a condition called diverticulosis, where pouch like structures are formed on the colon. This development is symptom less. When these sack like structures bleed, it is usually severe. The individual is hospitalized and immediately operated. Colon tumors also bleed. When hard stools brush against polyps or tumors they can make them bleed. The bleeding from tumors is very little and might go unnoticed. If bleeding is suspected, a fecal occult test may be done to identify blood in stools. The presence of worms in the intestines can also result in bleeding and constipation.

3. Heavily coated tongue

Signs in the mouth include a heavily coated tongue with foul breath. Constipation also reduces appetite as it causes stomach bloating and a feeling of fullness. This is due to blockage. Colon cleansing can prevent blockage. Colon cleansing products are easily available and can be taken on regular basis. Before taking them, a physician should be consulted.

4. Depression and irritation

Depression and irritation are caused due to mood swings. Constipation is mostly a result of an unhealthy lifestyle. Lack of sleep and physical activity can result in fatigue. As a result, there is build up of stress and anxiety, which in turn causes mood swings.

Symptoms That Occur As A Result Of an Underlying Constipation

Constipation is more likely to be a symptom than a disorder. The symptoms of common colon diseases include

1. Weight loss – Colon diseases like cancer can result in loss of weight as a result of loss of appetite. Constipation and diarrhea occurring alternatively are symptoms of a growing tumor.

2. Fluctuation in blood calcium levels – Changes in blood calcium levels can cause constipation. Other symptoms of conditions like hypocalcaemia include nausea, vomiting, excessive thirst and increased urination.

3. Sepsis – Build up of toxins in blood can cause septicemia. This is characterized by acute inflammation of the whole body. Severe constipation can be a contributing factor. It is characterized by symptoms usually produced by end stage organ dysfunction.

Colon cleansing prevents blockage. It is extremely beneficial in treating mild constipation. Colon cleansing can be scheduled for regular use to effectively prevent constipation.