Living with chronic constipation and bowel dysfunction can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and sometimes even overwhelming. Many people in Dhaka silently struggle with these conditions, often without knowing the underlying causes or available treatment options. Understanding what these conditions mean, their symptoms, and how they are diagnosed and treated can help patients take control of their digestive health.

In this article, we’ll explore constipation and bowel dysfunction in detail—covering causes, diagnostic tools, and treatment options, along with insights into specialized care available in Dhaka, including the bowel rehabilitation program at Alliance Hospital BD.

What is Chronic Constipation?

Chronic constipation refers to infrequent, difficult, or incomplete bowel movements that persist for several weeks or longer. While occasional constipation is common, chronic constipation significantly impacts daily life and overall health.

Some key characteristics of chronic constipation include:

• Passing fewer than three bowel movements per week.
• Hard, dry, or lumpy stools.
• Straining during bowel movements.
• A sensation of blockage in the rectum.
• Feeling of incomplete evacuation after passing stool.

Chronic constipation can be caused by lifestyle factors, medical conditions, or functional bowel disorders. In some cases, it is linked to bowel dysfunction, making proper diagnosis essential. For patients with suspected slow-transit constipation, a Colon Transit Study is often recommended to evaluate how quickly food moves through the digestive system.

What is Bowel Dysfunction?

Bowel dysfunction is a broad term that refers to any abnormality in the way the intestines and rectum function. It goes beyond constipation and can also include issues such as fecal incontinence, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and bowel evacuation disorders.

Types of bowel dysfunction include:

• Slow Transit Constipation: Reduced bowel movement frequency due to sluggish colon activity.
• Outlet Obstruction (Dyssynergic Defecation): Difficulty expelling stool caused by pelvic floor dysfunction.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A condition involving alternating constipation and diarrhea with abdominal discomfort.
• Fecal Incontinence: Loss of bowel control, leading to accidental leakage.

Understanding the specific type of bowel dysfunction is important for tailored treatment and long-term relief.

Causes of Constipation & Bowel Dysfunction

Constipation and bowel dysfunction can arise from several underlying factors. These include:

• Dietary Factors
  • Low fiber intake.
  • Inadequate fluid consumption.
  • Excessive consumption of processed foods.
• Lifestyle Factors
  • Sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise.
  • Ignoring the urge to pass stool.
  • Chronic stress or anxiety.
• Medical Conditions
  • Diabetes, hypothyroidism, or neurological disorders.
  • Gastrointestinal conditions like IBS or diverticulosis.
  • Pelvic floor dysfunction.
• Medications
  • Painkillers (especially opioids).
  • Antidepressants.
  • Iron supplements.
• Aging and Hormonal Changes
  • Slower metabolism with age.
  • Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause.

Recognizing the causes helps doctors provide more accurate diagnoses and effective treatment strategies. Also you can explore Understanding Colorectal Conditions

Symptoms to Watch For

While constipation and bowel dysfunction can have different manifestations, common symptoms to monitor include:

• Fewer than three bowel movements per week.
• Hard, dry, or painful stools.
• Feeling bloated or gassy.
• Straining for long periods during bowel movements.
• Lower abdominal pain or cramping.
• Rectal pain or bleeding (sometimes due to hemorrhoids or fissures).
• In severe cases, unintentional stool leakage or incontinence.

If these symptoms persist for weeks or worsen, it’s important to seek medical consultation, as they may indicate underlying conditions requiring treatment.

Diagnostic Tools & Tests

Doctors use several diagnostic tools and procedures to identify the root cause of constipation and bowel dysfunction. These may include:

1. Medical History & Physical Examination
   • Reviewing dietary habits, lifestyle, and medication history.
   • Conducting a rectal exam to check muscle function.
2. Blood Tests
   • To rule out thyroid, diabetes, or metabolic issues.
3. Imaging Tests
   • X-ray (KUB X-ray): To visualize stool accumulation.
   • Colonoscopy: To rule out blockages, polyps, or cancer.
   • Defecography: Imaging during bowel movements to assess rectal function.
4. Specialized Tests
   • Anorectal Manometry: Measures muscle strength in the rectum and anal sphincter.
   • Colonic Transit Study: Tracks how long food takes to move through the colon.
   • Balloon Expulsion Test: Assesses the ability to expel stool-like material.

These tests help pinpoint whether the constipation is functional, structural, or related to another medical condition.

What are colorectal conditions?

Colorectal conditions refer to disorders that affect the colon (large intestine) and rectum. Many cases of chronic constipation and bowel dysfunction fall under this category. Common colorectal conditions include:

• Colorectal Polyps: Small growths that may develop into cancer.
• Colorectal Cancer: Malignant growth in the colon or rectum.
• Diverticular Disease: Formation of small pouches in the colon wall.
• Hemorrhoids: Swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus.
• Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus.

Because symptoms of colorectal conditions often overlap with constipation and bowel dysfunction, early diagnosis is critical.

Treatment Options for Chronic Constipation

Treatment for chronic constipation and bowel dysfunction depends on the cause and severity of the condition. Common approaches include:

1. Lifestyle & Dietary Changes
   • Increase fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
   • Drink plenty of water daily.
   • Engage in regular physical activity.
   • Establish a regular bowel routine.
2. Medications
   • Laxatives (bulk-forming, osmotic, stimulant, or stool softeners).
   • Prokinetic agents to enhance bowel motility.
   • Suppositories or enemas for severe cases.
3. Biofeedback Therapy
   • Particularly helpful for pelvic floor dysfunction.
   • Teaches patients to coordinate muscles for easier bowel movements.
4. Surgical Options
   • In rare cases, surgery may be required for structural problems like rectal prolapse or severe colorectal disease.
5. Alternative Therapies
   • Acupuncture, probiotics, and relaxation techniques may complement medical treatments.

Bowel Rehabilitation Program at Alliance Hospital BD

For patients in Dhaka, the Bowel Rehabilitation Program at Alliance Hospital BD offers specialized and comprehensive care for chronic constipation and bowel dysfunction.

This program typically includes:

• Personalized Assessments: Detailed evaluation using advanced diagnostic tools.
• Dietary Counseling: Tailored nutrition plans with high-fiber diets and hydration strategies.
• Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles and improve bowel function.
• Biofeedback Therapy: Advanced training for patients with outlet obstruction constipation.
• Medication Management: Prescribed when lifestyle changes alone are insufficient.
• Patient Education: Guidance on lifestyle modifications, stress management, and self-care practices.

The program aims not only to relieve symptoms but also to restore healthy bowel habits and improve overall quality of life.

If you are struggling with chronic constipation, bowel dysfunction, or any colorectal concern, timely medical evaluation is essential. At Alliance Hospital BD, our expert gastroenterologists and colorectal specialists use advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to restore your comfort and quality of life.

Don’t wait until symptoms worsen—early diagnosis leads to more effective treatment.

Book your appointment now with our specialist team and take the first step toward better digestive health.