Why Chronic Constipation Can Be Dangerous
Why Chronic Constipation Can Be Dangerous: Chronic constipation may indicate a pelvic floor issue. Symptoms include infrequent bowel movements and hard stool in the rectum.
If you’ve ever sat on the toilet, scrolling your phone, wondering if this is “normal” or if something’s wrong… you’re not alone. At our wellness studio, we see it all the time. People come in thinking they’re just “a little irregular,” but when we start talking about their bowel habits, the picture becomes clearer.
The Cleveland Clinic defines chronic constipation as having fewer than three bowel movements a week, or when your stool is consistently hard, dry, or tough to pass. That’s the simple version. The Rome IV criteria, which is basically a fancy checklist gastroenterologists use, adds that for constipation to be considered chronic, it’s been happening for at least three months, and the onset of constipation started at least six months ago.
But here’s something we’ve learned from years of listening to clients: constipation is defined by how it feels, not just by the calendar. You could technically “go” three times a week but still be miserable if you’re straining, sitting there forever, or walking away with that “not finished” feeling. If you’ve ever had to brace yourself with your hands on your knees just to get things moving, you know exactly what I mean. That “can’t go without pushing” sensation is a big sign something’s off.
One of the most helpful tools we use in conversation is the Bristol Stool Chart. This is just a picture guide that shows what healthy stool looks like, from little rabbit pellets (that’s Type 1, usually linked to harder-to-pass constipation) to smooth, soft sausage shapes (the happy middle ground), all the way to watery diarrhea. In my experience, most patients with chronic constipation land in the Type 1–2 range, sometimes swinging back and forth depending on hydration, diet, and stress.
From our experience during intake sessions, patterns jump out quickly, it's ofetn people who travel a lot, work long hours without enough breaks, or who have a history of gut sensitivity, sometimes tied to irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, are often the ones sitting across from us. Others may have primary constipation, like slow transit constipation where the colon just moves sluggishly, or pelvic outlet issues where the pelvic floor muscles don’t relax the way they should.
We also have clients who come in after seeing multiple doctors with no clear answers. Some have had thorough testing like anorectal manometry or a balloon expulsion test, others haven’t, but all of them share the same thing, they want relief, and they want to understand what’s really going on with their body.
Epidemiology of Constipation
It might surprise you to know that constipation is a common problem worldwide, not just an occasional annoyance. Research suggests that around 14% of adults globally live with functional constipation (which means there’s no obvious structural problem causing it). In the U.S., estimates range from 9% to 20%, depending on how it’s measured. That’s millions of people walking around uncomfortable, bloated, and frustrated.
We see it in all age groups. Constipation in adults can pop up in young people who are glued to their desks, new moms adjusting to postpartum recovery, or retirees who’ve slowed down in physical activity. Then there’s constipation in the elderly, which can be linked to medications, lower mobility, and changes in diet, but it’s not “just part of getting older” like many think.
Even kids aren’t exempt. The epidemiology of constipation in children varies wildly, anywhere from 0.7% to nearly 30% depending on how researchers define it. In our experience, school-aged kids can develop a “withholding habit” if they don’t like using the bathroom at school, and over time, that can change the way the rectum senses the need to go.
And it’s not just about the bathroom. Constipation affects so much more, mood, focus, social life. We’ve had clients skip dinners out because of bloating and gas or they can’t button their jeans, or call in sick because the abdominal pain makes it impossible to sit through a meeting.
This isn’t about being dramatic. It’s about understanding that when constipation symptoms stick around, they ripple out into every corner of life. Which is exactly why we take it seriously from the start.
Symptoms of Constipation
You might feel like there’s a brick sitting in your belly, or you might find yourself going to the bathroom, sitting there, and… nothing. Or worse, a few tiny hard pellets that feel like you worked way too hard for way too little.
For some of our clients, the most frustrating part isn’t how often they go, but how they feel afterwards, that sense of blockage in the rectum, the lingering fullness, or that uncomfortable pressure in the lower abdominal area. Others feel a wave of urgency after a meal, rush to the bathroom, and still can’t pass anything. We see people with abdominal pain from straining, people whose jeans suddenly feel tight from bloat, and even people who get headaches and feel sluggish when their bowel movements slow down.
What’s tricky is that the symptoms of chronic constipation don’t look the same for everyone. Some people with constipation have normal transit constipation, meaning things move at a normal speed through the gastrointestinal tract, but the experience still feels difficult or incomplete. Others deal with slow transit constipation, where the colon takes its sweet time moving things along. And then there are those with pelvic floor dyssynergia in constipation, a mouthful that basically means the muscles meant to help you go are tightening instead of relaxing.
Is Chronic Constipation Dangerous?
Most of the time, chronic constipation is frustrating, uncomfortable, and inconvenient, but there are moments when it’s a clear signal to stop waiting it out and get help right away. In our studio, we always listen carefully for what the medical world calls “alarm symptoms,” because these can point to something more serious than your everyday sluggish gut.
If you ever notice blood mixed in your stool (especially if it’s dark or tarry rather than a small streak from a known hemorrhoid), that’s worth same-day attention. New iron-deficiency anemia, unexplained weight loss, fever, or persistent vomiting can also be signs that something in your gastrointestinal system needs immediate investigation. An acute change in bowel habits, especially in constipation in older adults, can be significant. And if you have a family history of colon cancer or other serious bowel disease, you should treat new or worsening constipation symptoms as a red flag rather than “wait and see.”
When we say “same-day,” we mean calling your doctor or heading to urgent care today, not next week. If the symptom is concerning but not immediately alarming, like mild bleeding from a fissure you’re already aware of, or occasional nausea, that’s a “call your clinician within a few days” situation.
Why is speed so important? Because long-standing, unaddressed constipation can cause complications that are far from pleasant. Chronic straining due to severe constipation can lead to fissures (tiny, painful tears), hemorrhoids, or even rectal prolapse where the rectum slips out of place. The pressure can also affect urinary function, leading to bladder problems. The bottom line? If your gut is telling you something’s off, it’s always worth listening.
Root Causes of Constipation Include
One of the first things we explore with clients is what’s happening in their everyday life that could be slowing down their system. Some common causes of constipation are surprisingly simple, not eating enough high fiber foods, skimping on fluids, or holding in the urge to go because you’re busy or don’t like public bathrooms. Travel can disrupt bowel habits, different time zones, less physical activity, changes in diet, and so can something as small as ignoring that “morning window” when your body naturally wants to go.
Stress and poor sleep are big culprits too. When your nervous system is in overdrive, your digestive system often takes a back seat. Bathroom positioning also plays a role, a high toilet seat with your knees below your hips makes the rectum work harder, while a small footstool can improve alignment and reduce strain.
Then there are secondary causes of constipation you’ll want to talk about with your provider. Certain medications, opioids, anticholinergics, iron supplements, some antidepressants, are well-known to cause constipation. Hormonal changes during pregnancy or postpartum recovery can slow things down. Medical conditions like thyroid disorders, diabetes, neurological diseases, and a history of pelvic surgery can also be part of the picture. Understanding your personal mix of habits, health, and history is the first step to knowing what to change right now and what needs medical oversight.
How Your Body Moves
Sometimes constipation is usually not about what you eat or drink, but about how your body physically moves waste along. In our field, we see three main type of constipation patterns.
First is normal transit constipation, stool moves at a normal speed through the colon, but you still feel blocked or have difficulty passing it. Second is slow transit constipation, where the colon’s “conveyor belt” just works at a slower pace. This is often linked to changes in the gut’s nerve or muscle function, and it can be confirmed with specific tests. Finally, there’s pelvic floor dyssynergia in constipation, when the muscles around the rectum and pelvic floor don’t coordinate properly. Instead of relaxing to let stool out, they tighten, creating a kind of internal traffic jam.
When constipation occurs due to pelvic floor issues, it can also lead to constipation higher up in the system, that back-pressure makes stool drier and harder before it even gets close to the exit. Targeted therapy, often with a specialized pelvic floor physical therapist, can make an enormous difference here. It’s one of those situations where knowing the exact cause changes everything about the management of chronic constipation.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) vs Chronic Idiopathic Constipation
If you are are confused about whether you have irritable bowel syndrome with constipation or chronic idiopathic constipation, here’s the simplest way we explain it: IBS-C is a “pain-first” condition. That means abdominal pain is the main feature, and the constipation is part of the overall symptom mix. In chronic idiopathic constipation, the main issue is the constipation itself, without that recurring, central pain pattern. Both can cause bloat, hard stools, and changes in bowel habits, but IBS-C often involves a stronger gut-brain connection.
Where the two overlap is in how they can cause constipation and affect quality of life. But when it comes to treatment, IBS-C might respond better to approaches that focus on calming the nervous system, things like gentle movement, breathwork, or cognitive behavioral therapy, while CIC treatment is often more about improving stool frequency and form directly. Understanding which one you have makes it easier to choose the best treatment for your body’s needs.
What your stool is trying to tell you
We always say your stool is like a daily report card from your gut. The Bristol Stool Chart is our go-to for helping people visualize what’s going on, but we keep it light and non-scary. Types 3 and 4, smooth, sausage-shaped, soft but formed, are what we aim for. Type 1 (hard pellets) or Type 2 (lumpy sausage) often show signs of chronic constipation or dehydration, while Types 5–7 slide into the looser, diarrheal side.
Color can be a clue too. Black, tarry stools, or red mixed into the stool (not just on the toilet paper) are reasons to call your doctor. Green or yellow can sometimes point to dietary changes or faster transit, but if it’s ongoing, it’s worth checking. Pale stools may indicate bile flow issues.
We also talk about the “morning window”, that time after waking when the gastrointestinal tract is naturally more active. Missing it can sometimes set the tone for the whole day. And yes, the humble footstool (think “Squatty Potty” style) really can change the angle of your rectum enough to make things easier. Mechanics, not magic.
Managing Chronic Constipation at Home
In our experience, the best place to start is by building a “go-now” routine. That can mean a warm drink in the morning to stimulate the gut, a few minutes of gentle physical activity, and using posture tweaks like a footstool to open the rectum angle. Breathing deeply and taking your time can reduce strain and make the process easier.
Changes in diet are another game-changer. Adding soluble fiber like psyllium can help, but the key is to go slow, jumping from zero to 30 grams a day can cause gas and discomfort. Hydration matters too, without enough water, fiber can backfire.
And remember, if symptoms persist despite these basics, it’s time to escalate rather than double down on home remedies. That could mean talking to your provider about a safe stimulant laxative, a colonic cleanse, considering further testing, or exploring other treatment for constipation that fits your situation. The goal is to work with your body, not against it.
Can Chronic Constipation Cause Weight Gain?
The short answer is yes, constipation may nudge the scale, but not in the way most people think. If you’re holding onto more stool than usual, plus the water your body retains with it, you might see a temporary bump in weight. This isn’t fat gain, it’s simply bulk. Once you have a good bowel movement, you’ll usually see the number shift back down within a day or two.
Realistically, the fluctuation is often in the one-to-four-pound range for most patients with constipation. If your weight change is larger, persistent, or paired with other symptoms like fatigue or appetite loss, that’s when it’s time to see your clinician. In those cases, the constipation could be part of a bigger picture, anything from thyroid issues to bowel disease, and it’s worth ruling those out.
How Colon Hydrotherapy Fits As A Wellness Tool
At Fernz Wellness, colon hydrotherapy and electro lymphatic drainage are not presented as magic fixes or medical cures, instead, we see them as gentle, comfort-focused tools that can support the body when constipation symptoms are part of the bigger picture. We think of lymph drainage and colon hydrotherapy for constipation relief as part of a cleansing approach, in the literal, physical way of helping the body move along what it’s ready to release.
Colon cleanse hydrotherapy can offer hydration support directly to the colon, softening stool and encouraging more comfortable bowel movements. The process can also stimulate the muscles of the colon in a way that’s similar to a gentle internal massage, which sometimes helps those dealing with functional constipation or slow transit constipation. It also creates space for people to tune into their bowel habits, notice patterns, and learn what affects their gastrointestinal rhythm.
Safety is always the starting point. We do not book colon hydrotherapy for anyone recovering from recent GI surgery, in the middle of an active inflammatory bowel flare, with severe hemorrhoids, unmanaged heart or kidney disease, or for pregnant clients. Every client goes through an informed-consent process, and we follow strict sterile-tech protocols for all equipment.
See all contraindications here.
Mainstream sources often point out the limited scientific evidence around colon cleansing, and that’s worth acknowledging. Our stance is to position these services as supportive wellness experiences, they can be part of a thoughtful, comprehensive management of constipation plan, but they’re not meant to replace medical treatment for patients with chronic constipation.
See top reasons to get a colonic cleanse here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chronic Constipation
What is the definition of constipation?
Constipation is usually described as having fewer than three bowel movements per week, passing stool that feels hard, dry, or difficult to move, or feeling like you haven’t fully emptied. It’s not just about the number of times you “go”, constipation is also about how it feels. You can experience constipation even if you’re technically going a few times a week, especially if there’s straining, discomfort, or that “not finished” feeling.
What causes chronic constipation in adults?
Causes of chronic constipation can range from lifestyle habits (low fiber, dehydration, irregular routines) to what’s called primary constipation, when the bowel muscles or nerves move more slowly than usual. Constipation may also be linked to changes in daily activity, stress, travel, or bathroom habits. In some cases, constipation occurs alongside other chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C).
Does constipation affect more than just the bathroom?
Yes. Constipation affects more than your bowel movements, it can influence your comfort, mood, energy, and even social plans. We’ve met people who skip events because of bloat, abdominal pressure, or discomfort. Over time, constipation without relief can take a toll on overall quality of life.
What are some common types of constipation?
The most common type of constipation we see is functional constipation, where there’s no structural blockage but the bowel isn’t moving comfortably. This includes normal transit constipation (movement is normal speed but still feels difficult), slow transit constipation (movement through the colon is delayed), and pelvic floor-related constipation (outlet coordination issues).
What are some treatment options for constipation?
When it comes to the treatment of constipation, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, because what works often depends on the cause. For some people, simply adjusting daily habits like drinking more water, increasing fiber gradually, moving more often, and responding promptly when the urge to go hits can make a big difference . Others may find comfort in wellness supports like gentle abdominal massage, colon hydrotherapy, or relaxation techniques that help the body release tension.
Can constipation occur without an obvious cause?
Yes. This is often called chronic idiopathic constipation, meaning there’s no clear reason found even after assessment. In these cases, management of chronic constipation focuses on supporting bowel habits, comfort, and quality of life while working with healthcare providers to rule out anything more serious.
Fernz Wellness - Los Angeles Colon Hydrotherapy
Learn more about us here and discover how our services can be a vital part of your journey to optimal health. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to better digestive health and improved well-being.
Our address is 5486 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036 and you can also call or text us at (424) 281-9366.
Conclusion
Living with chronic constipation isn’t just about “going” less often, it’s about how it affects your comfort, your mood, your energy, and your confidence to enjoy life without that constant, nagging discomfort. The good news is, there are so many ways to address it once you understand what’s really behind your symptoms. From the small, everyday tweaks that improve bowel habits, to professional support and targeted therapies, you don’t have to stay stuck in that uncomfortable cycle.
At Fernz Wellness here in Los Angeles, we’ve helped so many people find relief, reconnect with their bodies, and feel lighter, both physically and mentally, through services like colon hydrotherapy and electro lymphatic drainage. These sessions are designed to be gentle, hydrating, and supportive, giving your system a nudge while you work on the bigger picture of your gut health.
If you’re ready to explore a safe, comforting space to work on your digestive wellness, we’d love to welcome you. Book a session with us, and let’s help you feel at home in your body again, because you deserve to feel good from the inside out.
Additional Resources
Understanding Constipation: Causes and Treatments - Harvard Medical School
Managing Chronic Constipation - Cleveland Clinic
Tips for Relieving Constipation - UW Health
Constipation - University of Michigan Health
*The services provided by Fernz Wellness are intended for general wellness and educational purposes only. They are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Please consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or wellness routine. Results may vary.
