Call us: (704) 377-4009  |  Referrals  |  MyChart  |  Bill Pay
Schedule Appointment Prep Instructions Patient Portal Contact Us
Schedule Your Screening Find a Location Call (704) 377-4009 Send a Referral
Conditions

Constipation Treatment in Charlotte

Targeted diagnosis, effective treatment, and long-term relief

Constipation is one of the most common GI complaints — but when it becomes chronic, it deserves proper evaluation and care. Our GI specialists provide constipation treatment across the Charlotte area, with convenient locations in Huntersville and Mooresville.

Schedule your consultation
Know the condition

Understanding Your Condition

Constipation occurs when you have three or fewer bowel movements per week, or when stools are hard, dry, or difficult to pass. While it's extremely common, chronic constipation is not normal — and with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, most people experience significant, lasting relief.

Castle Connolly
Top Doctors

Acute constipation comes on suddenly and may resolve quickly. Chronic constipation lasts for weeks or longer, can significantly affect quality of life, and may signal an underlying medical issue that should be evaluated by a GI specialist.
KEY SYMPTOMS

Recognizing Symptoms

Knowing when constipation needs medical attention.

Common symptoms include infrequent, hard, or difficult-to-pass stools, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. Seek medical care if constipation is persistent, worsening, or interfering with daily life — and seek immediate care if you experience severe pain, vomiting, fever, or blood in your stool.

Infrequent Bowel Movements

Having three or fewer bowel movements per week is the defining sign of constipation, and may warrant evaluation if it becomes a persistent pattern.

Hard or Difficult Stools

Stools that are hard, dry, small, or difficult to pass are a hallmark symptom and can cause significant physical discomfort and straining, which over time can contribute to hemorrhoids.

Straining & Incomplete Emptying

Excessive straining during bowel movements can also increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids. The persistent feeling that stool remains in the rectum after a bowel movement, occurring 25% or more of the time, may indicate a functional GI disorder.

Bloating & Abdominal Discomfort

Abdominal pain, pressure, and bloating frequently accompany constipation and can significantly affect daily comfort and quality of life.

Sensation of Blockage

Feeling as though something is blocking stool from passing, or needing to use fingers to assist with bowel movements, are signs that may require specialized evaluation.

Warning Signs — Seek Immediate Care

Severe abdominal pain, vomiting, blood in your stool, inability to pass gas, fever, or unexplained weight loss while constipated require urgent medical attention.

Causes & Risk Factors

What Causes Constipation?

Constipation has many causes — some resolve on their own, while others require medical treatment. Understanding what's behind your symptoms is the first step toward effective relief.

Certain medications are known to cause constipation, including:

  • Narcotic pain medications
  • Some antacids and antispasmodics
  • Iron supplements
  • Certain antidepressants
  • Overuse of over-the-counter laxatives (which can worsen constipation over time)

Treatment Options

Managing Constipation

Treatment depends on your medical history, symptom severity, and how long you've been affected. Your GI specialist will work with you to identify the underlying cause and develop a personalized plan.

Lifestyle & Diet Changes

Increasing fiber intake, staying well-hydrated, and getting regular physical activity are the first-line treatments for most cases of constipation — and are highly effective for mild to moderate symptoms.

Medications

If lifestyle changes aren't enough, your doctor may recommend bulk-forming agents, osmotic agents, stool softeners, stimulants, or chloride channel activators — all best used under a doctor's supervision to avoid dependency.

Biofeedback Therapy

For constipation caused by pelvic floor dysfunction or anorectal muscle problems, biofeedback uses sensors to help you learn how to properly relax and coordinate the muscles needed for normal bowel movements.

Surgery

Surgery is rare and reserved for severe, chronic cases caused by a clearly diagnosed structural problem — such as colon dysfunction or rectal prolapse — that does not respond to other treatments

Living Well with Constipation

For most people, constipation can be effectively managed — and even prevented — with simple, sustainable changes. While building new habits takes time, most people find that the difference in how they feel makes it well worth the effort.

Fiber adds bulk to stool and helps it move more easily through the digestive tract. Aim to gradually increase your intake through fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Sudden, large increases can cause gas and bloating, so take it slowly.
Diagnostic Process

Getting Your Diagnosis

Diagnosing constipation starts with a thorough review of your history and a physical exam. For chronic, severe, or complex cases, your doctor may order additional tests to identify the underlying cause and guide treatment.

Your doctor will review your medical history and perform a physical exam to check for signs of tenderness, blockage, or bleeding. Blood tests may also be ordered to rule out underlying conditions such as low thyroid hormone levels, which can contribute to constipation.

FAQs

The best treatment for constipation is adding more fiber to your diet, drinking plenty of water, and getting more exercise. However, if you make these changes and still struggle with constipation, or if your constipation is severe, you should see a doctor for proper medical treatment.

Take the Next Step Toward Better Digestive Health

All of our offices, including locations in Charlotte, Huntersville, and Mooresville, offer evaluation and treatment for acute and chronic constipation. To get started, our team will connect you with the right office and the right GI specialist for your needs.

Have questions about insurance? The Charlotte Gastro team can verify your coverage and let you know what to expect for out-of-pocket costs.

Group 159
Schedule an appointment
Group 157
Find a location