Anatomic Causes Of Chronic Constipation

The two principle anatomic causes of chronic constipation are growths and a narrowing of the colon. Both causes can be treated but a physician must first be certain as to the true cause before prescribing the correct constipation remedy. To accomplish this, physicians have several tools at their disposal.

The simplest way to determine whether or not an anatomical cause is at the root of chronic constipation is to perform a digital examination of the anorectal area. Basically, this will help determine if a growth or narrowing of the colon is the source of the problem. However, should the digital examination fail to reveal a culprit for the condition, the intestines will need to be looked into.

Commonly referred to as a "lower GI", a doctor will use a lighted probe to look inside the intestines themselves. What are they looking for? In truth, more serious causes of chronic constipation such as: polyps, tumors, or evidence of a diverticular disease. If none are present, the next step is look for functional causes of constipation.