Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Is Severe Constipation For Over 5 Days A Serious Cause For Concern?
Question: I have been constipated the last 5 days. The stool is very firm and hard to pass. Last bowel movement was Friday evening and Saturday morning
Brief Answer:
Causes and ways to help constipation
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
To be more technical, constipation is defined in the medical field as a lack of bowel movement for a period of 5 days; therefore you have just started your phase of constipation, though by no means is this unheard of, nor does it necessarily have to be dangerous or life threatening (though in some cases it can be).
Nonetheless, there must be a few things addressed before we make any conclusion. First, are there any associated symptoms, pain, fevers, chills, nausea, vomiting on blood on any stool, urine or vomiting presentation? If the answer is yes, a more thorough workup needs to be done to address what is going on (GI bleed from ulcers, virus, impaction) all of which can potentially lead to constipation.
Regardless, in the meantime, there are things that you can do to help. The 1st and foremost is hydration.
This is the number one aid in helping your bowls start moving again. Other medications you may also want to try, which are over the counter are Bisacodyl and Magnesium Citrate. Ask your local pharmacist about these and make sure to take as directed per labeling.
I hope this advise helps with your symptoms and urge you to seek immediate medical attention if more symptoms present themselves (particularly bloody stool and / or intense abdominal pain).
Hope I have answered your query.
Regards,
Dr. Andrew Hatkoff
Radiologist
Causes and ways to help constipation
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
To be more technical, constipation is defined in the medical field as a lack of bowel movement for a period of 5 days; therefore you have just started your phase of constipation, though by no means is this unheard of, nor does it necessarily have to be dangerous or life threatening (though in some cases it can be).
Nonetheless, there must be a few things addressed before we make any conclusion. First, are there any associated symptoms, pain, fevers, chills, nausea, vomiting on blood on any stool, urine or vomiting presentation? If the answer is yes, a more thorough workup needs to be done to address what is going on (GI bleed from ulcers, virus, impaction) all of which can potentially lead to constipation.
Regardless, in the meantime, there are things that you can do to help. The 1st and foremost is hydration.
This is the number one aid in helping your bowls start moving again. Other medications you may also want to try, which are over the counter are Bisacodyl and Magnesium Citrate. Ask your local pharmacist about these and make sure to take as directed per labeling.
I hope this advise helps with your symptoms and urge you to seek immediate medical attention if more symptoms present themselves (particularly bloody stool and / or intense abdominal pain).
Hope I have answered your query.
Regards,
Dr. Andrew Hatkoff
Radiologist
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Remy Koshy
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
