What should I do if I can't have a bowel movement and my stomach feels bloated?

Nov 09, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In general, difficulty in defecation accompanied by abdominal distension may be caused by improper diet, insufficient water intake, lack of physical activity, gastrointestinal dysfunction, intestinal obstruction, or other factors. Depending on the specific situation, general treatment, oral medications, or surgical intervention may be used to treat or alleviate the condition. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance.

Generally speaking, the condition of being unable to defecate and having a bloated abdomen refers to difficulty in bowel movements accompanied by abdominal distension. It may be caused by improper diet, insufficient water intake, lack of physical activity, gastrointestinal dysfunction, intestinal obstruction, and other factors. Depending on the specific situation, general treatment, oral medication, or surgical treatment can be used to manage or alleviate the symptoms. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Improper diet: Insufficient intake of dietary fiber or swallowing excessive air due to eating too quickly can affect digestion and absorption of food, leading to abdominal bloating and difficulty in defecation. It is recommended to adjust your diet and increase dietary fiber intake, such as consuming more vegetables, fruits, and whole-grain foods.

2. Inadequate water intake: A lack of sufficient water in the gastrointestinal tract can cause dry and hardened stools, resulting in difficulty passing stool and a bloated abdomen. Maintaining adequate hydration can help soften stools, promote bowel movements, and relieve abdominal distension.

3. Lack of physical activity: Prolonged sitting or lying down can impair gastrointestinal motility, leading to bloating and constipation. Engaging in moderate physical activities such as walking, jogging, yoga, or sit-ups can improve blood circulation, enhance intestinal motility, and help alleviate symptoms of constipation and abdominal bloating.

4. Gastrointestinal dysfunction: Often caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors, gastrointestinal dysfunction can lead to imbalances in the gut microbiota, causing bloating and difficulty in defecation. Symptoms may also include abdominal pain and reduced frequency of bowel movements. Patients can take medications such as Bifidobacterium powder, Mebeverine Hydrochloride tablets, or Pinaverium Bromide tablets under a doctor's supervision.

5. Intestinal obstruction: This may be related to genetic factors or intestinal adhesions, causing gas to be trapped in the intestinal cavity, leading to abdominal distension and affecting the elimination of fecal matter, resulting in constipation. Other symptoms may include vomiting and cessation of flatus and bowel movements. Patients can consider surgical treatments such as adhesiolysis, bowel resection with anastomosis, or intestinal bypass surgery under medical guidance.

In daily life, maintaining a balanced diet, regular作息, and engaging in moderate physical activity can help prevent bloating and constipation. When experiencing symptoms of constipation, timely and scientifically appropriate measures should be taken to alleviate them, and seek medical attention when necessary.