Constipation is a common digestive problem. It can be unbearable and can cause vomiting; when waste builds up in the intestines and the colon, it can cause cramping, bloating, and pain. If you’re feeling nauseated, you might wonder; can constipation cause nausea?

While nausea and constipation are common signs, suffering from them at the same time can be tremendously uncomfortable. But the question is: can constipation cause nausea? Keep reading to get more information!

What Is Constipation?

Constipation is a medical condition in which a person experiences difficult or infrequent bowel movements. It involves various factors, such as a diet low in fiber, not drinking enough fluids, or a sedentary lifestyle.

Furthermore, constipation can be a side effect of certain drugs. Its treatment typically includes lifestyle changes, such as increasing fiber intake and exercise and can also involve using laxatives.

Can Constipation Cause Nausea?

Many digestive disorders can cause nausea, and constipation is one of them. When you are constipated, it means that you are having issues excreting feces. This can be uncomfortable and lead to a build-up of toxins in your body.

Constipation can also cause bloating, gas, and cramping. All these symptoms can contribute to nausea. If you experience constipation and nausea for over 7 days, see a doctor to rule out other potential causes.

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The Link Between Constipation And Nausea

There are a few different ways that constipation and nausea can be linked. For example, constipation can cause nausea because of many toxins in the body. When the colon is not able to effectively remove waste, it can cause the toxins to be reabsorbed back into the body, leading to feelings of nausea.

Nausea can also be a symptom of constipation, as the stomach can become distended and uncomfortable. In severe cases, constipation can lead to vomiting.

The Symptoms

There are many different symptoms of constipation and nausea, but the most common ones are:

• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Gas
• Difficulty passing stool.

Other symptoms may include feeling full after only eating a small amount, feeling like you need to have a bowel movement but not being able to pass one, or leakage of stool.

Constipation is often caused by a lack of fiber in the diet, not drinking enough fluids, or a lack of exercise. On the other hand, nausea results in different things, such as a stomach virus, food poisoning, motion sickness, or pregnancy.

Hence, the treatment for constipation and nausea depends on the cause but may include changes in diet, medications, or surgery.

Other Causes

Many gastrointestinal disorders can cause both constipation and nausea. Some of the most common include:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS is a chronic condition that can cause constipation, diarrhea, or a combination of the two. It is often accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and gas.

• Functional Constipation: This is a condition in which the bowels do not work well, resulting in infrequent or difficult bowel movements. It leads to many things, including changes in diet, medications, and stress.

• Gastroenteritis: This is an infection of the stomach and intestines that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. It is often accompanied by constipation.

Other things can also result in constipation and nausea. So, if you notice any of these, visit a doctor to rule out serious underlying causes.

How To Prevent Constipation And Nausea

Constipation and nausea are two common digestive issues that can be painful to experience. Here are some things you can do to help prevent these issues from occurring.

•             First, always drink plenty of fluids every day. It will help keep your stool soft and help to prevent constipation.

•             Fiber supplement: Always eat plenty of high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.  This will also help to keep your stool soft and help to prevent constipation.

•             Get plenty of exercises: Generally, walking is a great way to keep things moving through your system. It will help to keep things moving through your intestines and also help to relieve any stress that may be contributing to your nausea.

•             Avoid taking meals that are known to cause constipation or nausea. These include dairy products, greasy or fried foods, and caffeine.

•             Finally, don’t wait too long to take action. Use a stool softener or laxative if needed, and try to get some movement going.

When To See A Doctor

Below are a few instances where you should see medical personnel:

•             If you have recently changed your diet and are now experiencing constipation and nausea, it’s most likely your body wants to adjust to the new food, and it will stop eventually in a few days.

•             If the signs such as weight loss, blood in your stool, or abdominal pain disturb you for more than a week, speak with your doctor. These could be signs of a more severe problem, such as an obstruction in your intestines or a growth, so your doctor can help you check the cause and the best course of treatment.

•             If you are constipated and nauseous, your doctor will likely start by asking about your medical history and doing a physical exam. They may also order tests, like a blood test or CT scan, to rule out other conditions. Once they have a diagnosis, they will create a treatment plan for you. This may include medication, changes to your diet, and increased physical activity.

Warning: Self-medication for constipation and nausea can be dangerous and should always be avoided. It’s because taking drugs not prescribed by a medical professional can lead to serious health complications, including organ damage and death. If you encounter these symptoms, please call a doctor as soon as possible to get the proper treatment.

Final Thought

In conclusion, constipation can cause nausea. You can treat and prevent constipation and nausea by drinking plenty of fluids, eating fiber-rich foods, and exercising regularly to help move the waste through your system. You can also use a laxative to relieve constipation. But if it continues, speak with your doctor or health professional for their opinion.