Chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) is a long-term condition where bowel movements are hard to pass or occur less than three times a week. The term "idiopathic" means there's no identifiable cause like a blockage, illness, or medication.
Symptoms of CIC may include:
Although there's no single clear cause, factors that may contribute to CIC include:
Don't let chronic idiopathic constipation control your life. At GastroDoxs in Jersey Village, our expert gastroenterologists will develop a customized care plan-combining dietary guidance, lifestyle modifications, medications, and advanced therapies-to get you back on track. Call us at 832-632-4070 or Book Your Appointment Online today and start feeling better, one step at a time.
We've successfully treated more than 3.1K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
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.
Chronic idiopathic constipation is a long-term condition in which stool becomes hard to pass or bowel movements occur fewer than three times a week, and no clear medical cause is identified.
While no single cause is found, common contributing factors include slow stool transit in the colon, disrupted nerve signals between the brain and gut, low fiber intake, inadequate hydration, lack of physical activity, and certain medications.
Absolutely. Adopting a high-fiber diet, drinking sufficient water, and incorporating regular exercise or gentle movement into your daily routine can significantly improve symptoms.
Yes. Over-the-counter options like stool softeners and fiber supplements may help, and prescription medications such as linaclotide or plecanatide can enhance bowel function.
In IBS, abdominal pain typically improves after a bowel movement. In CIC, pain or discomfort does not reliably ease with a bowel movement, and there are no other IBS-defining symptoms.
While it may not be fully curable for everyone, CIC can be effectively managed with a personalized treatment plan that includes diet, lifestyle changes, and, if needed, medical therapies.
If symptoms persist longer than three months, worsen over time, or significantly impact your quality of life, you should consult a gastroenterologist for specialized care.
Biofeedback therapy trains your pelvic floor muscles to coordinate properly during bowel movements, helping reduce straining and improve stool passage.
Yes. Probiotics, regular abdominal massage, and a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support healthy bowel habits and alleviate symptoms.
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