Written by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG

What Is Constipation, and What Can You Do About It?

Constipation is one of the most common digestive problems in Houston—and everywhere else. Most people have it at some point, but many feel too embarrassed to talk about it.
At Gastrodoxs, we believe that knowing what causes constipation is the first step to feeling better. This guide explains what constipation is, what causes it, and what you can do at home. You’ll also hear when to see a doctor, like Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a leading Houston gastroenterologist.

What Is Constipation?

Constipation means your bowel movements are less frequent, harder, or harder to pass than normal.

Doctors usually define it as:

• Fewer than three bowel movements per week
• Hard, dry, or lumpy stools
• Pain or straining during a bowel movement
• Feeling like you didn’t fully empty

“Constipation can affect your day, your comfort, and even your mood,” says Dr. Pothuri. “It’s more than just a little trouble in the bathroom.”

When stool stays in the colon too long, it becomes dry and hard. That’s why it hurts to pass.

How Doctors Measure Constipation

• Bristol Stool Chart: A 7-type scale—types 1 and 2 show constipation
• Your Symptoms: Doctors listen to your diet and lifestyle story
• Physical Exam: Sometimes a checkup or scan rules out serious problems

Common Causes of Constipation in Adults and Children

Low-Fiber Diet

• Not eating enough fruits, vegetables, or whole grains
• Kids often avoid fiber-rich foods

Not Drinking Enough Water

• Dry stool forms when fluids are too low
• Kids often forget to drink, especially during sports or school

Lack of Exercise

• Sitting too much slows digestion
• Kids who watch lots of TV or play video games are also at risk

Ignoring the Urge to Go

• Being busy or not having access to a bathroom can delay bowel movements

Medications

• Painkillers (like opioids), antacids, iron pills, and ADHD meds may slow the bowels

Stress or Life Changes

• Travel, moving homes, or school stress can disrupt routine
• Adults feel it at work, too

Medical Conditions

• Thyroid issues, nerve damage, or chronic illness (like diabetes) can lead to constipation

“No matter your age, good food, fluids, and movement help the bowels work better,” says Dr. Pothuri.

How Diet and Hydration Help Bowel Movements

Eating the right foods and staying hydrated keep things moving.

Fiber:

• Soluble fiber (like oats and beans) makes stool softer
• Insoluble fiber (like wheat and veggies) adds bulk

Water:

• Try to drink 8 glasses a day
• Broth and herbal teas help too

Balanced Meals:

• Add fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats

Avoid Processed Foods:

• Fast food, chips, and sweets slow your gut down

Diet Tips to Prevent and Treat Constipation

Add More Fiber Slowly

• Sprinkle flaxseed on cereal or smoothies
• Snack on fruits, veggies, or popcorn

Pick Whole Grains

• Choose brown rice, oatmeal, and 100% whole-wheat bread

Try Probiotic Foods

• Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and miso can help balance gut bacteria

Stay Hydrated

• Carry a water bottle
• Sip peppermint or ginger tea for comfort

Cut Back on Constipating Foods

• Limit cheese, red meat, and highly processed foods
• Consider lactose-free milk if dairy bothers you

Eat on a Schedule

• Regular meals support regular bathroom habits

Lifestyle Habits That Help With Constipation

• Exercise Often: Walk, jog, stretch, or bike at least 30 minutes a day.
• Build a Bathroom Routine: Try using the bathroom at the same time each morning.
• Use the Right Position: A small footstool helps lift your knees above your hips.
• Manage Stress: Deep breathing, meditation, or yoga help relax your body and gut.
• Bathroom Comfort: Give yourself time and privacy. A book or music can help ease the mood.

How to Prevent Chronic Constipation

Taking small steps every day prevents long-term problems.

• Track your bowel movements
• Chew your food slowly and eat mindfully
• Increase fiber and fluids slowly to avoid gas
• Limit caffeine and alcohol
• Talk to your doctor about meds that may cause constipation

When to See a Doctor About Constipation

Most cases get better with home care. But some signs mean you should see a gastroenterologist.

Call a doctor if you have:

• Constipation lasting more than 3 weeks
• Bad belly pain or bloating
• Blood in the stool or black stools
• Weight loss you didn’t expect
• Nausea, vomiting, or trouble passing gas

“If home remedies don’t help, it could be something more serious,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Early testing makes a big difference.”

Comparing Constipation Treatments

Conclusion

Constipation can make daily life uncomfortable, but most cases improve with simple changes.
Drink more water, eat more fiber, and move more often.
If these tips don’t help, the team at Gastrodoxs is here to guide you.

“Fix the basics first,” says Dr. Pothuri. “If that’s not enough, we’ll help you dig deeper.”

Helpful Resources

• NIH: What Is Constipation?

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.