What is the Connection Between IBS and Constipation?

The primary connection between irritable bowel syndrome and constipation is that chronic and severe constipation is one of the hallmark symptoms of the condition. Most sufferers have some level of constipation accompanied by gas, bloating, abdominal pain, and sometimes diarrhea. Bowel movements may be scarce, but in most patients pain is alleviated when one has been passed.

There is no known cause for IBS and the constipation which results from it. Some theories point to dietary issues, such as food allergies and not eating enough fiber. For many patients, making dietary changes can help to reduce or even completely alleviate symptoms. Each person may have his or her own trigger foods, though, which may cause flare-ups in pain and constipation. This means that every patient with IBS and constipation should keep close watch on which foods cause the most problems.

Eating more fiber and drinking more water are two primary treatments for IBS and constipation. Fiber acts as a broom to sweep waste materials from the intestines, while maintaining adequate hydration levels allows stools to absorb more water as they pass through the intestines, and thus makes them looser and easier to pass.

In some severe cases, IBS and constipation may have to be treated with over the counter or prescription medications. Mild laxatives, such as glycerin suppositories, are generally considered safe for all patients because they are not absorbed by the body. Stimulant laxatives also may help produce a bowel movement, but should not be used frequently because they have a harsher effect on the body.

IBS and constipation often occur together with other painful digestive symptoms such as gas, bloating, abdominal pain, alternating diarrhea with constipation, and sometimes heartburn. Fatigue can also be a common symptom. Dietary treatments should help to alleviate all symptoms at once, but in some cases separate medications may be needed for full relief.

If IBS and constipation, along with all other symptoms, are not reduced with strict dietary changes and over the counter medications, prescription drugs may be needed. Patients who do not respond well to conventional IBS treatments may also be tested to ensure that there are no other underlying conditions causing symptoms. Sometimes lactose intolerance, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and even certain types of cancers can mimic IBS symptoms. Serious conditions are rare, but should be ruled out. In rare cases, parasites or other forms of pathogenic intruders may also be responsible for symptoms.