The American Gastroenterological Association estimates that chronic or frequent constipation leads to approximately 2.5 million doctor visits each year in the U.S. Besides making you feel irritable and bloated, finding relief from frequent constipation can also be time-consuming and confusing.

Here at Island View Gastroenterology Associates in Ventura, CA, we can help determine the cause of your chronic constipation. But when should you see a gastroenterologist for frequent constipation?

When to Visit Your Gastroenterologist for Frequent Constipation

If you’ve been constipated for more than two to three weeks, it’s best to see a gastroenterologist, as chronic constipation may be a warning sign of a more serious health issue. Frequent constipation can sometimes indicate conditions such as colon cancer, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hypothyroidism, and Parkinson’s disease. Treating the underlying cause is essential to finding lasting relief.

To determine the root cause of your constipation, your gastroenterologist in Ventura, CA, will review your medical history, conduct a physical exam, and order lab tests. If these initial assessments don’t provide clear answers, further imaging studies of the rectum and colon may be necessary for a more comprehensive evaluation.

If a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment may involve a multidisciplinary approach, including dietary and lifestyle changes and medication if needed. Some individuals experience discomfort, pain, or hypersensitivity when trying to pass stool, even when their rectum and colon appear normal.

Signs That Frequent Constipation May Be More Serious

Changes in normal bowel habits can sometimes indicate an underlying condition such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a bacterial or viral infection, colon cancer, or an obstruction. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

• Constipation lasting more than two to three weeks
• Mild diarrhea that doesn’t improve within a week
• Severe diarrhea that persists for more than two days
• Bloody diarrhea
• Tarry or black stools
• Unexplained and frequent urges to pass stool

Schedule an Appointment Today

Island View Gastroenterology Associates in Ventura, CA, is here to help you find relief from constipation and address any underlying digestive concerns. Call our office today at (805) 641-6525 to schedule a consultation.