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Regular bowel movements are necessary for good gut health. So, when a Quora user asked, ‘I haven’t had a bowel movement in a week. I added a lot more fibre and water. What’s going on?, we decided to consult experts. According to them, not having a bowel movement for a week is indeed concerning.
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When constipation lasts beyond a few days, even after increasing fibre and fluids, it’s a sign that your gut needs more than dietary tweaks, said Dr Saiprasad Girish Lad, consultant gastroenterologist, hepatologist, and endoscopist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central. “Sometimes, too much fibre too soon, especially without enough movement or adequate hydration, can actually worsen bloating and sluggish bowels. The digestive system needs time to adapt,” said Dr Lad.
Low physical activity, certain medicines (opioids, some antidepressants, iron, calcium), dehydration, or, less commonly, metabolic problems (low thyroid), severe constipation due to slow colonic transit, or obstruction are some of the common causes, said Dr Shankar Zanwar, senior consultant, gastroenterologist, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai.
Hormonal changes, stress, or underlying issues such as thyroid imbalance or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can also play a role.
What to try?
First, don’t rely solely on home fixes for more than a week, Dr Lad asserted. “If you haven’t had a bowel movement in seven days, consult a gastroenterologist. You may need a short course of laxatives or stool softeners to get things moving, along with identifying the underlying trigger,” said Dr Lad. – Try an osmotic laxative like polyethylene glycol (PEG, e.g., powder formulations) per package directions—these are effective and generally safe short-term. “A short course of a stimulant laxative (bisacodyl or senna) can help if needed. Follow label directions and ask your pharmacist or clinician if unsure,” said Dr Zanwar.
Gentle physical activity, such as walking, yoga twists, or even deep breathing, can stimulate your intestines. Warm fluids in the morning and a consistent meal schedule help too, said Dr Lad.
Are you taking care of your health? (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
Urgent care needed
*Go to urgent care or ER now if you have severe abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, or can’t pass gas.
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“Also see your primary care clinician promptly if constipation is new, persists despite OTC measures, or you’re older than 50 or losing weight. They can review meds, check labs, and arrange further tests.
What to note going forward?
*Balance fibre: Mix soluble sources (like oats, fruits) with insoluble ones (bran, vegetables) instead of overloading on one type.
*Hydrate smartly: Drink water steadily through the day, not all at once.
*Don’t ignore urges: Holding it in regularly can dull your bowel reflex.
Chronic constipation isn’t just discomfort; it’s your gut’s way of saying something’s off. “Early attention helps prevent complications like fissures or haemorrhoids, and brings your digestion back on track,” said Dr Lad.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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