Digestive & Bowel Health
Understanding Constipation
Constipation refers to infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often accompanied by straining, hard stools, or a feeling of incomplete emptying. It is a very common complaint and is usually benign, but persistent or worsening constipation can sometimes signal an underlying condition that needs specialist assessment.
Common Causes of Constipation
Constipation can result from a wide range of factors, including:
- Low dietary fibre or fluid intake
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Certain medications
- Irritable bowel syndrome or hormonal conditions such as an underactive thyroid
- Pelvic floor dysfunction, which can make it difficult to fully empty the bowel
- Painful anorectal conditions such as an anal fissure, which may cause avoidance of bowel movements
- Less commonly, structural narrowing or growths within the colon
When to See a Specialist
Most cases of constipation improve with simple dietary and lifestyle changes. However, you should seek specialist assessment if constipation:
- Persists for several weeks despite dietary changes
- Is accompanied by rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Is associated with unexplained weight loss
- Represents a new or sudden change in your normal bowel habit, particularly after age 45–50
- Occurs alongside a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
These features may warrant further investigation such as a colonoscopy or colorectal cancer screening.
How Dr Chamisa Can Help
Dr Chamisa provides a thorough clinical assessment of chronic constipation in Pretoria, taking a detailed history and examination to help identify contributing factors. Where an anorectal cause is suspected — such as an anal fissure or pelvic floor dysfunction — a pelvic floor assessment may be recommended. Where a colorectal cause needs to be excluded, a colonoscopy can be performed to examine the bowel directly.