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Constipation
Do you suffer from infrequent, hard, or painful bowel movements? At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott offers comprehensive, personalized, evidence-based care-dietary adjustments, medications, and advanced therapies-to effectively relieve constipation, restore lasting comfort, and enhance digestive health in a supportive environment.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is Constipation?
Constipation means having fewer than three bowel movements each week. It can also involve hard, dry, or painful stools. While it's common to experience constipation occasionally, ongoing symptoms can lead to discomfort, bloating, and even back pain.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Eating too little fiber
Not drinking enough water
Not exercising regularly
Certain medications (e.g., opioids, antacids)
Hormonal shifts (pregnancy, thyroid problems)
Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
Health conditions like diabetes, IBS, or nerve disorders
Signs and Symptoms
Straining during bowel movements
Hard, dry, or lumpy stools
Feeling of incomplete evacuation
Abdominal pain or bloating
Fewer bowel movements than usual
Lower back pain from abdominal pressure
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Constipation?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your bowel habits, diet, fluid intake, exercise level, medication use, and performs an abdominal and rectal exam to assess for impaction or pelvic floor dysfunction.
Blood Tests
We check thyroid function, calcium levels, electrolytes, and other metabolic markers that can contribute to slowed bowel transit.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal X-ray to evaluate stool burden, bowel gas pattern, and rule out obstruction.
Abdominal ultrasound to look for masses or structural abnormalities that may impede bowel motility.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Colonoscopy is recommended for patients over 50 or those with alarm features (bleeding, unexplained weight loss, anemia) to exclude colon pathology.
Specialized Testing (if needed)
Anorectal manometry to measure sphincter pressures and coordination during straining.
Defecography or dynamic MRI to visualize pelvic floor motion and rectal emptying.
Colonic transit studies using radiopaque markers to assess the speed of stool movement through the colon.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for constipation.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat 25-30 g of fiber daily from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes
Drink 8-10 cups of water each day
Establish a post-meal bathroom routine to promote regularity
Engage in regular physical activity most days of the week
2. Medications
Fiber supplements such as psyllium
Osmotic laxatives like MiraLAX (17-34 g daily)
Magnesium citrate for short-term relief
Stool softeners such as docusate
Prescription options including lubiprostone and linaclotide
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Biofeedback therapy to improve pelvic floor coordination
Sacral nerve stimulation for chronic cases
Colonic irrigation in selected patients
Surgical interventions for severe slow-transit constipation
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good high-fiber foods chart for constipation?
Choose from fruits like apples and pears, vegetables like broccoli and carrots, grains like oats and brown rice, and legumes like beans and lentils.
Can constipation cause back pain?
Yes. Straining and abdominal pressure during hard or infrequent bowel movements can lead to lower back pain.
How much MiraLAX can I take for severe constipation?
Most patients start with 17 grams once daily. Dr. Scott may increase this to 34 grams if needed and safe for you.
Is magnesium citrate safe?
Magnesium citrate is safe for short-term use to relieve constipation. It should not be taken daily without medical supervision.
When should I see a specialist in Houston?
See a gastroenterologist if you have fewer than three bowel movements per week for several weeks, or if you experience pain, bleeding, or unexplained weight loss.
Are there side effects from constipation medications?
Some people experience gas, cramping, or bloating. Dr. Scott will adjust your treatment plan based on how you respond.
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