When to See a Doctor for Constipation

Constipation is common, but that doesn’t make it normal. When digestive discomfort keeps coming back or gets worse over time, it’s worth finding out why. From occasional bloating to daily bathroom struggles, your body may be trying to tell you something. Learn the causes of constipation, what this condition feels like, and when you may need medical attention.

A doctor points at a human body model illustrating constipation in San Diego, CA

What Is Constipation?

Constipation is generally defined as having fewer than three bowel movements a week or struggling to pass hard, dry stool. There are several causes of constipation, including:

Low fiber intake
Dehydration
A sedentary lifestyle
Sudden changes in routine or diet
High stress levels
Genetics or gut microbiome imbalance
Certain medications or health issues, such as hypothyroidism or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

A slow-moving digestive system may gradually cause discomfort, bloating, and the need for laxatives, which can make the problem worse.

What Does Constipation Feel Like?

You might feel bloated, gassy, or crampy. Passing stool may involve straining, discomfort, or a feeling that there’s more left behind afterward. Some people still feel constipated even when they’re going regularly. In either case, it can be frustrating and painful.

When you’re not eliminating waste efficiently, your body may feel heavy, sluggish, and out of sync. These are all signs that something in your digestive rhythm isn’t working the way it should.

When to See a Gastroenterologist

Most constipation is not serious, but these danger signs mean it’s time to seek medical help from a gastroenterologist, otherwise known as a “poop doctor”:

Blood in the stool or black, tarry bowel movements
Unintended weight loss
A sudden, new onset of chronic constipation when you’ve never had it before
Severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or inability to pass gas or stool

What to Expect During a Doctor Visit

A gastroenterologist will examine your medical history, ask questions about what could be causing your constipation, and review any symptoms you’ve noticed. The doctor may perform a physical exam and suggest diagnostic tests, such as blood panels, nutrient or food-sensitivity tests, or digestive motility studies. Depending on the findings, they may recommend specific interventions, from increasing your water and fiber intake to prescribing medications or supplements.

Tips to Prevent Constipation

At the first signs of a backed-up digestive system, try these tips for long-term constipation relief:

Eat plenty of fiber, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
Stay hydrated by drinking at least 8 cups of water per day.
Get moving with 30 minutes of walking or light activity per day to stimulate your digestive tract.
Adopt good bathroom posture. Try using a stepstool to elevate your knees and relax the colon.
Maintain a regular eating and bathroom routine, and avoid delaying visits to the toilet.

Feel Better from the Inside Out

The team at Advanced Functional Medicine treats more than just symptoms—we treat the whole you. By accounting for your lifestyle, nutrition, toxin exposure, mental stress, and other factors, we can uncover what’s driving your constipation and create a plan that works in harmony with your body. Schedule a no-fee discovery call with our San Diego clinic today to get started.