Imagine sitting on the toilet, straining, waiting, and hoping for relief—but nothing happens. Or worse, you feel like you still need to go, but your body just won’t cooperate. If this scenario sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Millions of people struggle with difficulty passing stools due to chronic constipation and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). It’s more than just an inconvenience; it can significantly affect your daily life, causing discomfort, frustration, and even anxiety.
So, why does this happen? What can you do to get things moving? In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the causes, symptoms, and best remedies for dealing with severe constipation relief, whether it’s from IBS, dietary issues, or underlying medical conditions.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Chronic Constipation and IBS
- Symptoms of IBS and Constipation
- Why Can’t I Poop Even Though I Have the Urge?
- How to Relieve Constipation Fast
- Natural Remedies for Difficult Bowel Movements
- When to Seek Medical Help
- Get Professional GI Care in Houston
Understanding Chronic Constipation and IBS
Constipation and IBS often go hand in hand, but they are not the same.
- Chronic constipation is characterized by difficulty passing stools, infrequent bowel movements (fewer than three per week), and hard stools.
- IBS with constipation (IBS-C) is a digestive disorder that causes abdominal pain, bloating and constipation IBS, and irregular bowel habits.
Both conditions can lead to symptoms like stool stuck halfway out, excessive straining, and hard stool stuck in the rectum.
Symptoms of IBS and Constipation
The symptoms of IBS and chronic constipation can overlap, making it difficult to determine the exact cause. Key signs include:
- Constant bloating and constipation
- Feeling of incomplete bowel movement
- Painful bowel movements and constipation
- Hard stools that won’t come out
- Straining to poop but nothing comes out
If you experience any of these symptoms frequently, you may need to adjust your diet, lifestyle, or seek medical help.
Why Can’t I Poop Even Though I Have the Urge?
It’s incredibly frustrating to feel like you need to go but can’t. This could be caused by:
- Dehydration – Lack of fluids leads to dry, hard stools.
- Low fiber intake – Not enough fiber slows digestion.
- Pelvic floor dysfunction – Weak muscles make it hard to push stool out.
- Medications – Painkillers, antidepressants, and iron supplements can cause constipation.
- IBS-related motility issues – Your gut muscles may not be functioning properly.
How to Relieve Constipation Fast
If you’re looking for immediate relief, try these options:
- Drink warm water – A glass of warm lemon water in the morning can stimulate digestion.
- Exercise – Walking and light movement can promote bowel activity.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medicine for severe constipation – Options like stool softeners or laxatives can help in emergency situations.
- Massage your abdomen – Gentle circular motions may ease bowel movements.
Natural Remedies for Difficult Bowel Movements
If you prefer natural solutions, consider these:
- Best laxative for chronic constipation: Magnesium citrate is a gentle, natural laxative.
- Fiber supplements for constipation: Psyllium husk or flaxseeds can add bulk to stools.
- Foods to soften stool immediately: Eat prunes, kiwis, pears, or oatmeal.
- Home remedies for constipation and IBS: Try herbal teas like ginger or peppermint to relax the digestive tract.
When to Seek Medical Help
While occasional constipation is normal, chronic constipation and IBS should not be ignored. Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Blood in your stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Severe, persistent pain
- Symptoms lasting more than three weeks
Get Professional GI Care in Houston
If you’re struggling with long-term constipation treatment or IBS and constipation symptoms, don’t suffer in silence. Curative GI in Houston specializes in digestive health and can help you find relief. Call (713) 393-7744 or visit their website to schedule an appointment. Get the expert care you need to improve your gut health today!
