Types of Constipation
Constipation is a common gastrointestinal problem, but it can be caused by a variety of factors, each needing a different approach to treatment. Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar, an experienced Consultant Gastrophysiologist in Pune, India, offers expert insights into the different types of constipation, helping patients understand their condition and choose the right treatment options.
Learn about the various types of constipation, including chronic, functional constipation and more, along with their underlying causes and the best treatment options.
Here are the primary types of constipation:
Functional constipation:
This type of constipation can be further divided into three types:
- Normal-Transit Constipation (NTC): This type of constipation arises when stool moves through the colon at a normal rate, but the person experiences difficulty passing it. NTC is often related to lifestyle factors like poor diet, dehydration, or lack of physical activity. Treatment typically concentrates on dietary changes and increasing fluid intake.
- Slow-Transit Constipation (STC): STC occurs when stool moves through the colon too slowly, causing delayed bowel movements. This can result in a feeling of fullness, bloating, and infrequent bowel movements. It is often caused by a dysfunction in the muscles of the colon. Medical intervention, including prokinetic agents, may be required to stimulate bowel movements.
- Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Pelvic floor dysfunction happens when the muscles of the pelvic floor fail to coordinate properly, making it difficult to pass stool. This can result in straining and incomplete evacuation. Biofeedback therapy, a specialized treatment offered by Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar, can help retrain these muscles and restore normal bowel function.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C):
IBS-C is a subtype of irritable bowel syndrome characterized by chronic constipation along with abdominal discomfort or pain. Patients with IBS-C often experience bloating and alternating periods of constipation and diarrhea. Managing IBS-C typically involves dietary modifications, stress management, and medication to ease symptoms.
Dyssynergic Defecation:
Dyssynergic defecation is a situation where there is a lack of coordination between the pelvic muscles and the rectum, making it challenging to pass stool. This condition is often misunderstood as constipation, but it requires specific treatment methods, such as biofeedback therapy, to retrain the body to have coordinated bowel movements.
Chronic Constipation:
Chronic constipation is defined as having infrequent, difficult, or incomplete bowel movements for three or more months. It can be caused by various aspects, including lifestyle, underlying health conditions, or medications. Treatment may involve a combination of dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and medicines.
Medication-Induced Constipation:
Certain medications, such as painkillers (especially opioids), antidepressants, and iron supplements, can cause constipation as a side effect. If you suspect that medication is contributing to your constipation, it’s essential to consult Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar to discuss alternative options or management techniques to manage the condition.
If you’re struggling with any type of constipation, Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar provides personalized care to diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the most effective treatment. With her expertise in gastrointestinal physiology and biofeedback therapy, she offers advanced solutions to improve bowel function and enhance quality of life.
If you experience persistent or severe constipation, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar at Kaizen Gastro Care. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your symptoms and help prevent long-term complications.