This conversation is often taboo to most people as it can be considered a very personal one. However, constipation is the most frequently assessed gastrointestinal symptom in dialysis patients, and the prevalence of constipation in hemodialysis patients is 63.1% (nearly 2 in 3 dialysis patients), a study revealed. Through this article, we shall understand the root causes, dangers, and solutions around this frequent issue.

Assessing the root cause

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) are more likely to develop in individuals with frequent constipation than in those with optimal bowel movements and vice versa due to an associated low fluid intake. The bottom line is that constipation and poor kidney health go hand in hand.

The most common cause of constipation is lifestyle-related – a diet low in fiber or high in fats. A few other causes of constipation include specific medication, unhealthy bowel habits, overuse of laxatives, hormonal imbalances due to bad lifestyle choices and a sedentary lifestyle.

The telling signs of constipation

Though it can mean different things to different people, constipation does have a clear definition. Anyone with three or more of the following symptoms in the last 3 months can consider themselves to have a constipation issue.

• Two or fewer bowel movements in a week
• Hard or lumpy stools more than 25% of the time
• Straining with stools more than 25% of the time
• A consistent feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowel
• Straining during a bowel movement more than 25 percent of the time

Symptoms may vary with each individual and are unique to their specific case and circumstances. If any of the above symptoms are observed in your case, please reach out to your doctor for further information and a better understanding of your condition.

How does it develop in the body? Can it be dangerous?

Below is a timeline to help you better understand how constipation may develop: 

Mild constipation: Only small-hard or no stools within the last 48 hours

Moderate constipation: Only small-hard or no stools within a 72 hour period

Severe constipation: More than 72 hours with no stool, very soft stools or liquid stools may indicate a partial blockage. At this point, it is advisable to seek professional help to rule any future risks and permanent health challenges.

If left untreated for too long, constipation can lead to several health disorders such as hemorrhoids or piles, the collection of dry, hard stools in the rectum, bowel incontinence or the leakage of liquid stools and rectal prolapse or the protrusion of the anus, to name a few.

Steps to alleviate frequent constipation

At NephroPlus, dialysis patients have been relieved of such pain & difficulties by taking laxatives & stool softeners on advice from a doctor or nephrologist. Patients should consult their physician for stool softener recommendations, the optimum dosage, and frequency of use.

From our experience, an increase in dietary fiber usually does the job but will not work in all cases. The best thing patients can do is to employ healthier lifestyle habits such as regular bowel patterns, basic physical activity or movement, timely eating patterns, and working closely with a renal dietitian who can help develop a kidney-friendly diet plan.

To sum it up, constipation is easy to treat and is not a cause for serious concern. In almost all cases, it is largely associated with a lifestyle that needs just a few corrections, meaning it is completely under your control. With a few rounds of professional consultations and the adoption of a few healthier daily habits, you can completely relieve yourself of this issue.