A Common Condition That Deserves Thoughtful Evaluation and Expert GI Support
Constipation occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or difficult to pass. While many people experience occasional constipation, for some, it becomes a chronic concern that affects daily life and may point to an underlying digestive issue. At GI Consultants, our board-certified gastroenterologists provide comprehensive evaluation and care to help you get lasting relief and rule out serious causes.
Why Patients Trust Us for Constipation Management
Constipation may be common, but our approach is anything but routine. We bring a careful, compassionate, and evidence-based strategy to every case—to ease discomfort and protect your long-term health.
Experience with Functional & Structural GI Disorders
We treat both common and complex GI causes of constipation, including IBS, colorectal cancer, hypothyroidism, and more.
Convenient In-House Testing
We offer endoscopy, colonoscopy, bloodwork, and barium imaging all in one location, minimizing delays and referrals.
Customized Treatment Plans
Your treatment is tailored to your symptoms, history, and health goals—whether that includes lifestyle changes, medication, or further diagnostics.
Ongoing Monitoring & Support
We follow your progress closely and make adjustments as needed to keep your digestive health on track.
Understanding a Common Issue That Can Signal Bigger Digestive Problems
Constipation is defined as having infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools over an extended period. Everyone's bowel habits differ, but constipation is generally diagnosed when a person experiences at least two of the following for three months or more:
- Straining during bowel movements
- Hard, lumpy stools
- Feeling of incomplete evacuation
- Fewer than two bowel movements per week
Other symptoms may include bloating, abdominal discomfort, and, in some cases, vomiting.
Who is at Risk?
Several lifestyle, medical, and situational factors can increase your risk of constipation:
- Low fiber intake and dehydration
- Inactivity or sedentary lifestyle
- Use of certain medications (pain relievers, antidepressants, iron supplements)
- Medical conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, Parkinson's, or MS
- Pregnancy or stress
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Overuse of laxatives
- Eating disorders or high dairy consumption
Identifying the Root Cause of Your Symptoms
When constipation persists or doesn't respond to home remedies, our team uses advanced tools to understand what's happening beneath the surface.
Colonoscopy
A visual exam of the colon to detect polyps, inflammation, cancer, or structural issues.
Blood Tests
Used to evaluate thyroid function, check for diabetes, and rule out other metabolic conditions.
Barium Enema (Lower GI Series)
A specialized X-ray study that tracks the movement of contrast material through the colon to identify blockages or abnormalities.
Anorectal Manometry
Measures muscle function in the rectum and anal sphincter to assess motility disorders.
Transit Time Studies
Tracks how long it takes for food to move through the digestive tract, helping diagnose slow transit constipation.
These tools allow us to pinpoint the underlying cause and tailor treatment specifically to your condition.
