WebMD: Crohn's Disease and Constipation

WebMD recently interviewed Shervin Rabizadeh, MD, MBA, deputy director of Guerin Children’s and chair of the Department of Pediatrics at Cedars-Sinai, to discuss why some patients with Crohn’s disease experience constipation.

Constipation—which is characterized by infrequent bowel movements, stomach cramps or dry, lumpy stool—is a common digestive issue that affects people with and without Crohn’s disease, Rabizadeh told WebMD.

“Patients with Crohn’s disease can have constipation at the same rate as the general population,” he said.

Common causes include limited physical activity, high stress levels, use of strong pain medications, and low-fiber diets. Symptoms can include bloating, nausea and a feeling of incomplete bowel movements.

For those living with Crohn’s disease, experts identify additional potential causes of constipation, such as pelvic floor dysfunction and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Rabizadeh also highlighted the impact of distal colonic inflammation affecting the last part of the large intestine, which helps send signals to trigger a bowel movement.

“Inflammation here can lead to dysfunction, including constipation,” Rabizadeh told WebMD.

To support digestive health and promote regular bowel movements, experts recommend a diet rich in high-fiber foods like peas, oats and apples. Drinking coffee or tea can also help. Rabizadeh advised limiting rice and dairy products, which can make constipation worse.

If constipation is accompanied by abdominal pain or vomiting, it’s important to seek medical attention, as these symptoms could be signs of a bowel obstruction.

“Lack of bowel movements related to bowel obstruction needs to be evaluated by the doctor, and most times, patients need admission to the hospital for fluids, treatment, and potential surgery,” Rabizadeh said.

Read the complete article from WebMD.