How Can I Tell If My Constipation Is A Serious Problem?

by Eric Bakker N.D.

Constipation is a concerning condition. Many people are confused about the definition of constipation. They think being constipated means being unable to go to the bathroom at all. The accurate definition of constipation is that it is a change in bowel function that makes it more difficult to pass a bowel movement. Constipation can also include having a small bowel movement, only to find yourself coming back later to pass the rest of the stool.

In my mind, constipation can also describe very irregular bowel motions, maybe a couple of times a week in the morning, and then on another day, they will be going at 9:00 at night. Their bowel will be all over the place. In essence, constipation is difficulty in passing a motion at a regular time every day.

In my opinion, you should start worrying about constipation as soon as you noticed a change in your regular bowel habits.

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If you have become constipated, the first thing I recommend is trying to find the cause behind the effect. Have you changed your lifestyle? Have you changed your diet? Are you eating at more irregular hours? Are you sleeping less, staying up later? Have you had a relationship crisis or a problem at work?

Other reasons to worry about constipation are if you develop bad breath, feel fatigued, notice your joints becoming creaky, or find yourself more irritable than usual. If you’ve seen a decline in your overall health for several weeks or months, you should worry about your constipation.

If constipation is a concern, seek assistance from a medical professional. You want to identify any problem as soon as possible. The sooner you fix what’s causing your constipation, the easier it is to get healthy again.

If you don’t address your constipation, you are at risk of absorbing endotoxins from the gut into your bloodstream. Many authors have written about endotoxemia as a complication of constipation.

Don’t rely on Dr. Google to give you the answers you need about your bowel function. Go and get professional help if you’re concerned about constipation.

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About Eric Bakker N.D.

Eric Bakker ND has completed almost ten years of study and has almost almost 25 years of clinical experience in natural and integrative forms of medicine, and has pursued continuous post-graduate study in Australia, America, India as well as in New Zealand.

Eric is the past Vice President of the NZ Natural Medicine Association and is currently on their editorial advisory board.