Constipation Specialist, Conway, AR
Constipation is more than just a temporary discomfort—it can be a sign that something deeper is affecting your digestive system. At Consider Health, we take a comprehensive, personalized approach to uncover what’s disrupting your gut function and help restore regularity in a way that aligns with your body’s natural rhythms.
Whether you’re dealing with occasional sluggishness or chronic symptoms tied to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or hypothyroidism, our goal is to treat the root cause—not just the symptoms—so you can feel like yourself again.
What is Constipation?
Constipation occurs when stool moves too slowly through the digestive tract, becoming hard, dry, and difficult to pass. It’s one of the most common conditions affecting the digestive system—yet often overlooked until symptoms begin to interfere with daily life.
In functional medicine, we recognize that constipation isn’t just a bowel issue. It may signal underlying imbalances involving the colon, small intestine, liver, gallbladder, or even the nervous system. Certain medications, nutrient deficiencies, chronic stress, and conditions like hypothyroidism, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or celiac disease can all play a role.
At Consider Health, we view constipation as a symptom—not a standalone diagnosis. Our focus is on identifying what’s slowing down your system and why, so we can develop a care plan that supports healthy motility, microbial balance, and long-term digestive wellness.
Common Causes of Constipation
There’s no single cause of constipation—rather, it often results from a combination of factors affecting how the digestive system functions. Some of the most common contributors include:
Diet low in fiber and fluids
A lack of dietary fiber or dehydration can slow stool movement through the large intestine.
Chronic stress
Stress impacts gut motility and the brain-gut connection, often worsening constipation.
Hormonal imbalances
Thyroid disorders, especially hypothyroidism, can lead to slower bowel movements.
Digestive conditions
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, GERD, and acid reflux may all contribute to irregularity.
Nervous system dysfunction
Nerve-related issues can affect how muscles in the colon and rectum contract.
Certain medications and supplements
Pain medications, antacids with calcium, iron supplements, and antidepressants are frequent culprits.
Lack of movement
Physical inactivity or a sedentary lifestyle slows digestion and impacts bowel regularity.
What Symptoms Does Constipation Cause?
While infrequent bowel movements are the most recognized sign, constipation often causes a range of symptoms that impact daily comfort and function. When chronic, it may lead to complications like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or even fatigue and brain fog due to poor detoxification.
Patients may also notice a range of symptoms, such as:
Abdominal pain or cramping
Bloating or a sensation of fullness
Straining during bowel movements
Hard, dry, or lumpy stools
A feeling of incomplete evacuation
Nausea or loss of appetite
Painful bowel movements
In some cases, vomiting or rectal bleeding
What are the Treatment Options for Constipation?
At Consider Health, we see constipation as a symptom of deeper dysfunction—whether related to gut motility, inflammation, food sensitivities, or nervous system regulation. Our approach is rooted in personalized, whole-person care, designed to identify the root cause and support long-term digestive health.
Your treatment plan may include:
Comprehensive Lab Testing
We begin with in-depth blood work and functional labs to assess nutrient levels, inflammation markers, thyroid function, and how key organs like the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and large intestine are working together. These insights help uncover hidden contributors like anemia or hormonal imbalance.
Food Intolerance Testing
Certain foods can trigger bloating, slowed digestion, or inflammation in the digestive tract—especially in patients with irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease. Identifying and removing problematic foods can make a significant difference in resolving chronic constipation.
Gut Microbiome Testing
A balanced microbiome is essential for healthy digestion. If your gut bacteria are imbalanced, it can impact motility, increase gas or bloating, and even worsen inflammation. We use stool testing to evaluate microbial diversity and tailor probiotic and dietary interventions accordingly.
Functional Medicine
We look beyond the immediate symptoms to assess your lifestyle, stress levels, and any related conditions—like GERD, acid reflux, or celiac disease—that may be affecting your intestinal function. This helps us design a treatment plan that works with your body, not against it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to relieve constipation?
Quick relief often comes from a combination of hydration, fiber-rich foods, and gentle movement. At Consider Health, we also address deeper causes to help prevent recurrence.
What foods are good for constipation?
High-fiber options like leafy greens, flaxseeds, chia, berries, and legumes support regularity. We personalize food plans based on your gut and microbiome profile.
How can I prevent constipation from coming back?
Prevention involves consistent hydration, movement, stress regulation, and identifying food sensitivities or gut imbalances that may slow motility.
What should I avoid when constipated?
Avoid processed foods, excessive dairy, dehydration, and ignoring the urge to go. Some supplements or medications may also contribute—our team helps identify and adjust these.
Contact
Office hours
© 2025 Consider Health with Dr. Currie. All rights reserved.