Why does cirrhosis cause difficulty with bowel movements?

Jun 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My family member has cirrhosis and frequently experiences difficulty passing stools, with dry bowel movements. May I ask why cirrhosis causes difficulty passing stools?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
The main causes of defecation difficulties in cirrhosis include: 1. Improper diet: Patients with cirrhosis often experience loss of appetite, reduced food intake, or insufficient dietary fiber and fluid intake, which may lead to difficulty in defecation. It is recommended to increase intake of high-fiber vegetables and fruits, such as spinach and bananas, to promote bowel movements. 2. Medication effects: Certain medications, such as long-term use of calcium channel blockers, may cause abnormal defecation. If intolerance occurs, the medication regimen should be adjusted promptly. 3. Reduced intestinal motility: In the late stages of cirrhosis, complications such as ascites and gastrointestinal dysfunction may occur, leading to weakened intestinal motility and resulting in defecation difficulties.