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Constipation
Constipation is a common digestive issue affecting people worldwide, characterized by infrequent or difficult bowel movements. It can cause discomfort, bloating, and pain. For detailed information on causes, prevention strategies, and treatment options, visit the Gastro Clinic's comprehensive constipation guide.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Low-fiber diet (too few fruits, vegetables and whole grains)
Inadequate fluid intake or dehydration
Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
Sedentary lifestyle or lack of regular exercise
Certain medications (e.g., opioids, antacids with calcium or aluminum, iron supplements, some antidepressants)
Metabolic and endocrine conditions (e.g., hypothyroidism, diabetes)
Pelvic floor dysfunction or rectal issues (e.g., strictures, tumors, rectocele)
Signs and Symptoms
Fewer than three bowel movements per week
Straining during bowel movements
Hard, dry or lumpy stools
Sensation of incomplete evacuation
Feeling of blockage in the rectum
Use of manual maneuvers to pass stool (e.g., pressing on the abdomen or using fingers)
Bloating, abdominal discomfort or cramps
Reduced appetite or nausea in severe cases
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Constipation?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Review
He discusses your bowel habits, diet, fluid intake, medication use, and any recent changes in routine or travel.
Physical Examination
He palpates your abdomen to assess for bloating, tenderness, or signs of intestinal blockage.
Rectal Examination
A gentle rectal exam allows him to evaluate muscle tone, check for impacted stool, and rule out any structural issues.
Laboratory Tests and Basic Imaging
Blood tests to screen for thyroid dysfunction, diabetes, or electrolyte imbalances.
Abdominal X-ray or ultrasound to detect obstructions or abnormal masses.
Advanced Functional Testing (if indicated)
For persistent or severe cases, he may order colon transit studies to measure how quickly material moves through your colon, or anorectal manometry to assess coordination and strength of your pelvic floor muscles.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for constipation treatment.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Eating more high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Drinking more water each day to stay hydrated
Adding regular physical activity such as walking
Following a high-fiber foods chart for guidance
2. Medications
Fiber supplements such as psyllium to bulk up stool
Osmotic laxatives like magnesium citrate to draw water into the colon
Stool softeners to ease the passage of hard or dry stools
3. Advanced Treatments
Biofeedback therapy to retrain pelvic floor muscles
Botox injections to relax overly tight muscles
Endoscopic procedures to remove blockages when needed
Sacral nerve stimulation to support pelvic floor function
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal number of bowel movements?
Anywhere from three times a day to three times a week can be normal, depending on your diet and metabolism.
Can constipation cause back pain?
Yes. Straining and pressure in the abdomen can radiate to the lower back and cause discomfort.
Can constipation make me feel sick or nauseous?
Yes. A buildup of stool can lead to bloating, gas, and nausea until regular bowel movements resume.
Is magnesium citrate safe for treating constipation?
Yes. Magnesium citrate is an osmotic laxative that is safe for short-term use when taken as directed by a physician.
What foods can help relieve constipation?
High-fiber foods such as berries, prunes, pears, oats, beans, and whole grains can soften stool and promote regularity.
When should I see a doctor about my constipation?
See a doctor if constipation lasts more than two weeks, if you experience severe pain, or if you notice blood in your stool.
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