Constipation Treatment in Gurgaon, India
What is Constipation?
Constipation happens when you have trouble passing stools or you don’t go to the toilet as often as usual. It means your bowel movements become less frequent, hard, or painful. Some people go every day, others every few days. What matters is what’s normal for you. If you notice changes or feel discomfort, it's time to take it seriously.
What are the Symptoms of Constipation?
Constipation doesn’t just mean you’re not going to the bathroom regularly—it comes with a range of symptoms that can affect how you feel throughout the day. Here’s what you might notice:
One of the most obvious signs of constipation is having dry, hard, or lumpy stools. These are difficult to pass and can even cause small tears around the anus, leading to pain or bleeding. This happens because your body pulls too much water out of the stool when it stays in the colon for too long.
Fewer Than 3 Bowel Movements a Week
Everyone’s bathroom routine is different, but if you’re going less than three times a week, it’s likely a sign of constipation. The longer stool stays in your colon, the harder and drier it becomes making it even tougher to pass.
Straining While Trying to Pass Stool
If you find yourself pushing hard every time you’re on the toilet, you’re probably constipated. Straining is a sign that your stool is too hard or your body’s natural bowel movements aren’t happening as they should. Over time, straining can lead to issues like hemorrhoids.
Feeling Like Something Is Stuck
People with constipation often describe the sensation of something being "stuck" in the rectum. It might feel like your body is trying to pass stool, but nothing’s happening or only a small amount comes out. This can be frustrating and uncomfortable.
Bloating and Abdominal Cramps
When stool builds up in your system, it can cause gas and pressure in the belly. This leads to bloating, tightness, and even cramps or pain, especially after meals or when you try to go to the bathroom. Your stomach may feel full or swollen.
A Feeling of Incomplete Evacuation
Even after you’ve been to the toilet, you may feel like you haven’t emptied your bowels completely. This constant, lingering sensation can be uncomfortable and leave you feeling unsettled throughout the day.
What Causes Constipation?
Constipation happens when your bowel movements become slow, hard, or difficult to pass. This uncomfortable problem can sneak up for many reasons, some simple, some more serious. Let’s break them down:
Your digestive system needs fiber to keep things moving. If you don’t eat enough fruits, vegetables, whole grains, or legumes, your stool can become dry and hard. Fiber adds bulk to your poop and helps it pass smoothly. A diet full of processed or junk food often lacks this essential nutrient, making constipation more likely.
Not Drinking Enough Water
Water keeps your stool soft. When your body doesn’t get enough fluids, your colon absorbs extra water from your food waste, making your stool dry and difficult to pass. That’s why staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to prevent constipation.
Lack of Physical Activity
Sitting or lying around all day can slow down your digestion. Physical movement helps your intestines contract and push stool forward. So when you don’t exercise, your bowels get lazy too. This is especially common in people who are bedridden, elderly, or work long desk hours without much movement.
If you regularly ignore the natural urge to poop whether you’re busy, in public, or trying to hold it in your body, you get used to holding it. Over time, this habit can lead to harder stools and less frequent bowel movements.
Side Effects of Certain Medications
Some medicines can slow down your digestive system. Painkillers (especially opioids), iron supplements, certain antidepressants, and even some antacids can lead to constipation. If your symptoms started after starting a new medicine, talk to your doctor about possible alternatives.
Your body loves routine, especially your gut. Traveling, changing your sleep schedule, stress, or even switching jobs can throw off your normal bathroom pattern. These changes can confuse your digestive system and cause temporary constipation.
Sometimes, constipation is a symptom of an underlying health issue. Conditions like:
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can slow metabolism and digestion.
Diabetes can affect nerves that control the bowel.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) often causes both constipation and diarrhea.
Neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis, may also slow bowel movement.
If your constipation is frequent or severe, it’s important to rule out these health problems.
When to consult the doctor for constipation treatment
Constipation might seem harmless at first, but ongoing issues can signal something more serious. Here’s when you should stop waiting and consult a doctor.
See blood in your stool
Lose weight without trying
Have severe stomach pain
Can’t go for more than a week
Feel extremely bloated or nauseous
These could point to a more serious issue and need medical attention right away.
How do we Diagnose Constipation?
At Artemis Hospital, our specialists begin by listening closely to your symptoms and health history. We don’t just treat the problem—we get to the root of it. Here's how we diagnose constipation:
Physical Exam and Medical History
We start with a gentle physical check-up and ask questions about your bowel habits, diet, lifestyle, medications, and past health issues. This helps us understand what might be causing your constipation.
These help us check for conditions like thyroid problems, diabetes, or infections that may affect your bowel movements.
If needed, we’ll test a sample of your stool to look for infections, bleeding, or signs of inflammation in your digestive tract.
If your symptoms are severe or long-lasting, we may suggest imaging like an abdominal X-ray, CT scan, or a colonoscopy. These tests help us see inside your intestines to rule out blockages, tumors, or other serious issues.
By combining these tests, our team can create a clear picture of what’s going on—and plan the most effective treatment for you.
What are the Treatment Options for Constipation?
Non-Surgical Treatments
We focus on safe and simple solutions first:
Lifestyle changes – Eat more fiber, drink more water, and move around
Laxatives – We suggest these only when needed and monitor your use
Suppositories or enemas – For short-term relief in stubborn cases
Medications – For chronic or severe constipation, we may prescribe safe medicines that help your intestines work better
Constipation in Pregnancy and Children
We customize treatment to keep things safe for you and your child. Our team includes gynecologists and pediatricians who work together to offer safe solutions.
Home Remedies to Try
Before reaching for medication, you might find relief with some simple home remedies. These natural methods can gently get things moving and improve your gut health.
Warm water with lemon in the morning
Fiber-rich breakfast like oats or fruit
Set a toilet routine . Try going at the same time every day
Use a footstool to raise your knees while on the toilet this helps align your body better
How can you prevent constipation?
Preventing constipation is often easier than treating it. With a few healthy lifestyle habits, you can keep your digestive system running smoothly every day
Eat at least 25–30 grams of fiber daily
Drink 8–10 glasses of water a day
Exercise regularly
Don’t ignore the urge to go
Reduce stress it affects your gut more than you think
Constipation During Pregnancy
Pregnancy hormones slow down digestion and your growing baby puts pressure on your intestines. If you’re pregnant and constipated:
Drink plenty of water
Eat fiber-rich foods like fruits and oats
Stay active with doctor-approved exercise
Avoid over-the-counter laxatives unless your doctor suggests them
Artemis Hospital offers gentle and safe treatment options for constipation during pregnancy.
Constipation in Children and Babies
Children and infants can also struggle with constipation. They might:
In babies, it’s important to track feeding and diaper changes. Constipation could result from formula changes or introducing solids. At Artemis, our pediatric team helps treat baby constipation gently and safely.
Chronic Constipation
If you’ve been constipated for weeks or months, you might have chronic constipation. It can affect your quality of life and may signal an underlying issue.
Our gastroenterologists at Artemis Hospital can help identify the root cause and build a long-term treatment plan that includes:
Diet changes
Safe medications
Physical therapy
Choose Artemis Hospital for Constipation Treatment in Gurgaon
At Artemis, our expert doctors listen carefully, investigate your symptoms thoroughly, and provide the right treatment—whether it’s occasional constipation or a long-term issue. Our multidisciplinary team includes gastroenterologists, gynecologists, pediatricians, and dietitians so you get complete care under one roof.If needed, we also offer advanced tests and procedures in a modern, patient-friendly environment.
To book an appointment with the gastroenterologist in Gurgaon, contact Artemis Hospitals at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Pawan Rawal
Head Unit I - Gastroenterology
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know I’m constipated?
If you're going less often, straining a lot, or passing hard stools, you’re likely constipated.
What can I do to relieve constipation quickly?
Drink water, eat a fiber-rich meal, and try gentle movements like walking. A warm drink in the morning can also help.
Can stress cause constipation?
Yes, stress can slow digestion. Relaxation techniques often help improve bowel movements.
Is constipation common in pregnancy?
Very. Hormonal changes and pressure from the baby can cause it. But it’s manageable with the right care.
What if my child is constipated?
Encourage more fluids and fruits. If the problem continues or they seem uncomfortable, see a pediatrician.
When should I see a doctor?
If symptoms last more than a week, or you see blood, feel severe pain, or lose weight—get medical help.
Can constipation become serious?
Yes, if untreated, it can lead to piles, anal fissures, or more serious bowel issues. Don't ignore it.
What is the ICD-10 Code for Constipation?
The ICD-10 code for constipation is K59.0. It is used to classify and document cases of constipation in medical records.