Cause 8: Underlying Medical Conditions
One of the often-overlooked reasons for constipation is the presence of underlying medical conditions. It’s easy to dismiss constipation as a mere dietary or lifestyle issue. Still, sometimes, the root cause might be deeper and may require medical attention.
Firstly, there are gastrointestinal disorders, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. These conditions can affect the bowel’s regular muscular contractions, leading to either rapid or slowed movement of stool. Particularly in IBS with constipation (IBS-C), the transit time can be considerably delayed, causing hard, infrequent stools.
Secondly, endocrine and metabolic disorders can also play a part. Conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, and hypercalcemia can significantly impact gut motility. For instance, an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can slow down many of the body’s functions, including bowel movements.
Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries can also interfere with the body’s ability to move stool through the colon. The nervous system plays a critical role in signaling the intestines to contract and move waste. Any disruption in this signaling can lead to constipation. (8)
