Constipation Treatment in Portland, OR
Constipation is a common digestive issue that affects people of all ages. It occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or difficult to pass, often leading to discomfort and frustration. Furthermore, it is often the underlying cause of issues like rectal bleeding, hemorrhoids, and anal fissures.. At the Northwest Center for Colorectal Health, located in Portland, OR, our expert team of doctors — Dr. Scott M. Browning, Dr. Jeffrey V. Manchio, and Dr. Richard U. Kalu — specializes in diagnosing and treating constipation with personalized care. Whether you’re dealing with occasional constipation or a chronic issue, we’re here to help you find relief and improve your digestive health.
What Is Constipation?
Constipation is defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week or experiencing difficulty passing stool. For some, it may involve straining, hard or lumpy stools, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation. While occasional constipation is normal, chronic constipation can interfere with daily life and may signal an underlying health issue. In rare cases, a sudden worsening of constipation may indicate a serious condition like colon cancer. The providers at Colorectal Health NW can perform a colonoscopy to rule out any serious underlying causes.
What Causes Constipation?
Constipation can result from a variety of factors. Dietary habits, such as a lack of fiber or insufficient water intake, are common contributors. A sedentary lifestyle, certain medications, or changes in routine can also play a role. In some cases, constipation may be linked to medical conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), pelvic floor dysfunction, or even structural issues in the colon or rectum. Identifying the cause is key to effective treatment.
What Are the Symptoms of Constipation?
The symptoms of constipation can vary from person to person but often include infrequent bowel movements, straining during bowel movements, or passing hard, dry stools. Some individuals may also experience bloating, abdominal discomfort, or a sensation of blockage in the rectum. Chronic constipation can lead to complications such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures, making it important to seek treatment if symptoms persist. Our providers not only develop a treatment plan to alleviate constipation but also address related complications, offering medical or procedural treatments for rectal bleeding, hemorrhoids, and anal fissures.
How Northwest Center for Colorectal Health Treats Constipation
At Northwest Center for Colorectal Health, we take a comprehensive approach to treating constipation. Our doctors begin with a thorough evaluation, which may include a review of your medical history, dietary habits, and lifestyle. Diagnostic tests, such as imaging or colonoscopy, may be recommended to rule out underlying conditions.
Treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s needs and may include dietary changes to increase fiber intake, hydration recommendations, or the use of medications to regulate bowel movements. For more complex cases, advanced therapies or procedures may be necessary to address structural or functional issues such as providing referral to a pelvic floor physical therapy specialist.