How to Identify Chronic Constipation? When Is It More Than a Normal Problem?
Constipation is extremely common in India. Most people experience it occasionally due to changes in routine, travel, dehydration, or diet. Usually, it improves with simple remedies. But when constipation becomes frequent or persistent, it may be a sign of a deeper problem. According to Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar, a leading Gastrophysiologist and Gut Motility Specialist in Pune, many patients ignore early signs of chronic constipation until it starts affecting their lifestyle, mood, and overall digestive health. Recognising chronic constipation early helps prevent complications like piles, fissures, rectal prolapse, and severe motility disorders. This blog explains how to identify chronic constipation, the difference between normal and severe constipation, and when you should seek expert help.
What is Constipation?
Constipation is typically defined as:
- Less than 3 bowel movements per week
- Hard or dry stools
- Difficulty passing stools
- Excessive straining
- Feeling of incomplete emptying
A short episode of constipation is normal. The concern starts when it becomes chronic.
What is Chronic Constipation?
Constipation becomes chronic when symptoms persist for more than 3 months and repeatedly interfere with daily life.
You may have chronic constipation if you:
- Frequently struggle to pass stool
- Need to strain almost every time
- Feel bloated or heavy most days
- Depend on laxatives regularly
- Feel like the stool is “stuck”
- Spend too much time in the washroom
- Avoid travel or outings because of bowel issues
Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar explains that chronic constipation is often related to gut motility problems, pelvic floor dysfunction, or irregular bowel habits—and each of these needs specialised treatment, not just home remedies.
Normal Constipation vs. Chronic Constipation: Key Differences (Chart)
Normal Constipation Chronic Constipation
Short-lasting (1–2 days) Lasts 3–12 weeks or more
Caused by food changes, dehydration, travel Caused by gut motility issues, hormones, pelvic floor disorders
Improves with water, fibre & rest Does NOT improve easily
No major pain Pain, bloating, heaviness
Occasional Frequent or continuous
No complications May lead to fissures, piles, prolapse
If your symptoms fall into the second category, it is time to seek help from a specialist like Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar.
Common Symptoms of Chronic Constipation:
Chronic constipation shows itself in more ways than just difficulty passing stool.
Here are signs you should watch for:
- Straining Every Time You Pass Stool: If you must push hard during bowel movements regularly, it indicates poor bowel movement or pelvic floor issues.
- Hard, Pebble-Like Stools: Stools that are extremely dry, hard, or small suggest that food is staying too long in the colon.
- Less Than Three Bowel Movements Per Week: This is one of the most reliable signs of chronic constipation.
- Feeling of Incomplete Emptying: Even after passing stool, you feel the need to go again. This is often linked to pelvic floor dysfunction or ODS (Obstructive Defecation Syndrome).
- Bloating and Gas Throughout the Day: Constipation slows digestion, causing gas build-up and abdominal heaviness.
- Dependency on Laxatives: If you require laxatives frequently, it means your natural bowel rhythm is weak.
- Painful Bowel Movements
Pain can occur due to:
- Hard stools
- Anal fissures
- Piles
- Straining
When Is Constipation More Than 'Just a Problem'?
You should consult Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar immediately if you notice:
- Blood in Stools: Indicates fissures or piles caused by straining.
- Severe Pain While Passing Stool: This suggests injury or inflammation in the anal canal.
- Persistent Bloating: May point to slow-transit constipation or motility issues.
- Mucus Leakage or Rectal Bulging: Possible signs of rectal prolapse or pelvic floor dysfunction.
- A Constant Feeling of Stool Being Stuck: Common in Obstructed Defecation Syndrome (ODS).
- Stool Leaking Accidentally: Indicates muscle weakness or nerve issues.
- Need for Manual Pressure to Pass Stool: Applying pressure near the vagina or anus to pass stools is a sign of anatomical or muscular dysfunction.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Constipation combined with weight loss needs immediate evaluation.
When Should You Absolutely Seek Help?
You should schedule an appointment with Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar if:
- Constipation persists for more than 3 weeks
- You feel blocked or stuck during stools
- You experience severe straining
- You notice bleeding
- You feel heaviness even after passing stool
- You depend on laxatives
- You have pelvic pain, back pain, or discomfort while passing stool
Conclusion:
Constipation becomes dangerous when ignored. Understanding the difference between occasional constipation and chronic constipation is essential for long-term health. With expert evaluation and targeted treatment from Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar, patients can restore natural bowel movements, improve gut motility, and regain comfort in daily life.