Back pain can be caused by many reasons, and above that, if you are constipated, everyday life can become difficult. Constipation is a common digestive problem that can cause various symptoms. However, many people don’t realise it can sometimes cause back pain. While back pain can be caused by many factors, the relationship between constipation and back pain is well-researched. This blog will explain the connection between constipation and back pain.
Infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing bowel movements can lead to constipation. Normal bowel movements usually happen one to two times a day. With constipation, you may have only three bowel movements a week. Here are some additional symptoms of constipation:
• Lumpy or hard stool
• Pain while passing stool
• A feeling of fullness
• Straining to pass fecal matter
Constipation causes the intestines to swell with retained fecal matter. This can result in discomfort in both the back and abdomen. This type of back pain is reported as a dull, aching type of discomfort.
Many conditions can result in constipation. In some cases, the main cause of constipation can’t be determined. Here are some possible causes of constipation:
• Dehydration
• Low-fiber diet
• Lack of physical activity
• Certain medications
• Bowel obstruction
• Colon or rectal cancer
If you are struggling with constipation, you may experience pain in:
• Lower Abdomen
The most common area where constipation pain is felt is in the lower abdomen. Here, you may experience pain, cramping, and bloating.
• Rectal Region
In the rectal region, you may feel pressure, pain, or a stinging sensation due to hard stool or conditions like hemorrhoids.
• Upper Abdomen
The pain from the intestines can sometimes feel like it is pushing upward, leading to sharp gas pain.
Generally, waste material builds up in the colon when you are constipated. As a result, this buildup causes the colon to swell, exerting pressure on surrounding nerves and organs. The pressure can radiate, resulting in pain that’s felt in the abdomen and elsewhere. The pain is usually described as a dull, aching pain. In some cases, the pressure from the waste material buildup can press on nerves in the lower spine, which can lead to back pain.
In rare situations, back pain can be caused by a more serious condition, and constipation is a related symptom. For instance, an infection or tumor affecting the spine could lead to both constipation and back pain. A tight psoas muscle that connects the upper body to the lower body can also lead to low back pain and contribute to constipation.
If constipation causes low back pain, you can try some home remedies to treat constipation, like:
• Getting more exercise
• Eating high-fiber foods
• Rather than holding in stool, you should go to the bathroom when the urge strikes
• Make sure to drink enough water
• Try a cup of warm caffeinated coffee to improve the muscles in your digestive tract, followed by five minutes on the toilet.
After trying home remedies, if you still experience constipation, you can consult Glenroy GP at Magnus Medical Centre. Despite this, if you have back pain, you can try the following home remedies:
• Topical pain relievers
• Ice or heat
• Meditation, yoga, and deep breathing
• Avoid prolonged bed rest
• Gentle exercise
Generally, back pain doesn’t lead to constipation, but there are other reasons that could cause constipation:
• Sedentary lifestyle: Pain usually leads to reduced physical activity and mobility, which can affect the digestive system.
• Tense muscles: Back pain can lead to muscle tension around the lower back and pelvis, making bowel movements difficult and painful.
• Stress and anxiety: Chronic back pain can lead to anxiety and stress, triggering changes in bowel habits.
• Side effects of pain management: Some pain medications can also lead to constipation.
Conclusion
If you have constipation and back pain, you need to see a doctor at Magnus Medical, a well-reputed medical centre in Glenroy.
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