Constipation Clinic

At the Anadolu Medical Center’s Constipation Clinic, patients experiencing constipation are evaluated in a multidisciplinary manner under the coordination of the Gastroenterology Clinic, with support from Radiology, Biochemistry, and Microbiology departments, as well as other relevant clinics. The Constipation Clinic ensures that patients are accurately guided and treated based on the latest information, making effective use of our available resources and capacity.

What Methods Are Used in Our Clinic?

In our clinic, your age, symptoms, findings, and individual characteristics are evaluated to determine the necessary tests. Not all examination and test methods are required for every patient.

The equipment and methods used for the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of constipation include:

Who Is Involved in the Constipation Clinic?

The Constipation Clinic is coordinated by the Gastroenterology Clinic. Taking into account our patients' specific needs, a wide team is available for more detailed examinations and treatments when necessary. This team includes specialists from Diet and Nutrition, Psychiatry, Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Nephrology, General Surgery, Gynecology, and Urology departments.

What Is Constipation?

Constipation, one of the most common bowel dysfunctions, is a significant clinical problem due to uncertainties around its definition, as well as challenges in diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and varying approaches.

Constipation can be defined as difficulty with bowel movements, encompassing four main concepts, either together or separately: hard stool, low stool volume, difficulty passing stool, and reduced frequency. Generally, if bowel movements occur fewer than three times per week, constipation may be present.

What Are the Causes of Constipation?

Constipation can result from digestive system disorders, abnormalities in dietary habits, or as a side effect of certain medications.

The main causes of constipation include:

What Are the Risk Factors for Constipation?

Chronic constipation risk factors include older age, female gender, insufficient fluid intake, a diet low in fiber, low physical activity, and the use of certain medications (such as sedatives, narcotics, and hypertension medications).

When Should You See a Doctor for Constipation?

Constipation is a condition that can be managed, and it is often functional. If you have fewer than three bowel movements per week, with small amounts of very hard stool, and difficulty in passing it, you may want to consider seeking help for constipation.

How Is Diagnosis and Evaluation Done for Constipation?

Your doctor will evaluate your age, symptoms, findings, and personal characteristics to determine the necessary tests. There are several examination methods and tests available for this purpose, though not all are necessary for every patient.

• Rectal Examination: This involves a visual and manual examination of the anus and the final segment of the colon. It provides useful information and diagnostic clues.
• Sigmoidoscopy or Colonoscopy: These procedures use a flexible fiber-optic device with a camera to examine the inner lining of the colon. The device is inserted through the rectum to inspect relevant parts of the colon, up to where it meets the small intestine, to check for any unexpected growths or diseases.
• Radiological Examinations: Direct X-rays, CT scans, or MRI can provide an indirect view of the digestive system.
• Colon Transit Time: This test measures the rate at which the colon advances and empties its contents, offering key insights into the cause of constipation.
• Manometry Studies: Manometry examines muscle activities, functions, and capacities in the lower part of the colon and anus, assessing whether the muscles in this section function properly. This test also evaluates sensory functions in the rectal mucosa and muscles.

Is It Possible to Prevent Constipation?

Dietary precautions—such as eating a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and fiber—and high fluid intake can help prevent constipation. Avoiding delaying bowel movements is essential, and dedicating specific times of the day to use the restroom can be beneficial.

How Is Constipation Treated?

Treatment options for constipation depend on the underlying cause. The initial recommendation is generally to increase fiber and fluid intake. A diet rich in fiber, drinking plenty of fluids, going to the bathroom at set times, and maintaining adequate physical activity are important preventive measures. If these are insufficient, or based on test results, treatment may include tailored diets, medications, and exercises.

Biofeedback, a technique that helps improve the function of bowel movements and surrounding skeletal muscles, is also used.

Prepare Before Seeing Your Doctor!

Before your appointment, consider preparing answers to some common questions your doctor might ask. This will help your doctor better understand your condition and guide the necessary tests and treatment approach effectively.