Constipation and IBS
IBS and constipation often go hand in hand, creating a frustrating cycle of discomfort for many people. Constipation-predominant IBS (IBS-C) is one of the most common forms of this digestive disorder, where slow-moving stool leads to painful bloating, gas, and abdominal pain.
How Constipation Worsens IBS Symptoms
When stool moves too slowly through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, it sits longer than normal. This allows bacteria to ferment undigested food, producing excess gas that stretches the intestines and causes bloating and cramping. The backup also triggers abdominal pain, a feeling of fullness, and sometimes nausea. Hard, lumpy stools make matters worse, as straining adds to the discomfort and can even lead to hemorrhoids or fissures over time.
People with IBS-C often describe a "rock in the stomach" sensation or incomplete emptying after bowel movements. These symptoms overlap with chronic constipation but tend to include more pain and bloating that improve after passing stool.
Getting to the Root Cause with Functional Medicine
Working with a functional medicine doctor, you can explore relevant testing to uncover what's slowing your GI tract. This might include stool analysis for gut microbiome balance, breath tests for bacterial overgrowth (SIBO or IMO), or markers of inflammation and motility. These help identify triggers like low fiber intake, dehydration, stress, hormonal shifts, or dysbiosis.
From there, we develop evidence-based treatments to improve gas, bloating, bowel habits, and pain. Options often include a low-FODMAP or fiber-optimized diet, hydration strategies, gentle motility support (like magnesium), probiotics, and stress reduction techniques such as mindfulness or gut-directed hypnotherapy.
If you're in Alberta and tired of the IBS-constipation cycle, let's discuss testing and your personalized plan. We offer 60-minute in-person or virtual appointments for Alberta residents, plus free 15-minute discovery calls to explore functional and naturopathic solutions for better digestive health.