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Understanding Constipation: Causes, Symptoms, and Who’s at Risk

  • Let’s talk about what’s holding you up—literally
  • Constipation Symptoms, Causes, and Risk Factors Explained
  • Your guide to better bowel health starts here
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Expert and Fast Evaluation

Our experienced healthcare professionals provide quick, accurate evaluations to determine the cause of your constipation. We’re committed to getting you the right treatment as soon as possible.

Personalized Care Plans​

We understand that every patient is unique. That’s why we offer customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs, including dietary advice, over-the-counter remedies, and prescription options when necessary.

Convenient Walk-In Care

At NextGen Primary Care Clinica Hispana Walk-in Clinic & Urgent Care, we understand that digestive discomfort doesn’t always happen during regular office hours. That’s why we offer walk-ins, with no appointment required.

Ongoing Support and Guidance

From immediate treatment to long-term prevention, we provide continuous care, patient education, and follow-up support to ensure your digestive health is well-managed for the future.

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    • Understanding Constipation Understanding Digestive Health: Signs and Causes of Constipation

    Constipation is a common yet often overlooked digestive issue that can affect daily comfort and overall well-being. Whether it’s occasional or chronic, struggling with infrequent or difficult bowel movements can disrupt routines and lead to discomfort. While many people experience constipation at some point in their lives, it’s especially prevalent among older adults and those with specific health conditions or lifestyle habits. In this article, we’ll explore what constipation is, why it happens, and who is most at risk, helping you better understand how to manage and prevent it.

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    Constipation

    Compassionate, Convenient Help for
    Constipation at Nextgen Primary Care

    When it comes to digestive discomfort, you deserve fast, reliable care from a team that understands your needs. At Nextgen Primary Care, we’re here to help you find relief from constipation with expert evaluation, compassionate service, and convenient access—no appointment necessary.

    Personalized Care, Right When You Need It

    Constipation can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and sometimes even painful. Our experienced medical professionals take the time to listen to your symptoms, identify the root cause, and create a personalized treatment plan to help restore your digestive health. Whether it’s a minor dietary issue or a sign of something more serious, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

    Convenient, Same-Day
    Service

    We know how important it is to get relief quickly. That’s why we offer walk-in visits and extended hours to fit your busy schedule. No need to wait days for an appointment—just stop by when you need us, and we’ll take care of the rest.

    What You Can Expect at NextGen Primary Care

    • Compassionate providers who listen and care
    • On-site testing and evaluations if needed
    • Fast, effective treatment recommendations
    • Supportive guidance for prevention and long-term digestive wellness
    • A clean, comfortable clinic environment with minimal wait times

    At Nextgen Primary Care, we make your health a priority—because when you’re not feeling your best, getting help should be easy and stress-free.

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    Constipation May Be Linked to Mental Health​

    Constipation isn’t just a physical issue—it can also have strong ties to mental health. Research has shown that conditions like stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly affect digestion, potentially leading to or worsening constipation. Understanding this connection is crucial for effectively managing both digestive health and mental well-being.

    The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a critical role in regulating the function of the digestive system. The ANS has two components: the sympathetic nervous system (which governs the “fight or flight” response) and the parasympathetic nervous system (which governs the “rest and digest” functions). Mental health conditions, such as anxiety or stress, can overstimulate the sympathetic nervous system, which in turn can slow down digestion and lead to constipation.

    The connection between mental health and constipation is deeply rooted in the way the brain and gut communicate. This is often referred to as the “brain-gut connection.” The gut is lined with millions of nerve cells that are influenced by the brain. When you’re stressed, anxious, or depressed, it can trigger changes in the digestive system, slowing down bowel movements and leading to constipation.

    • Stress: When you’re stressed, your body goes into “fight or flight” mode, which can cause the digestive system to slow down. This delay can result in constipation, bloating, and abdominal discomfort.
    • Anxiety: Anxiety can affect digestion by altering the way the stomach and intestines contract. This can result in slow-moving stool, leading to constipation and discomfort.
    • Depression: Depression has been shown to affect gut motility, making it harder for food to pass through the intestines. In fact, many individuals with depression report gastrointestinal issues, including constipation.

    Constipation and mental health conditions often feed into each other, creating a vicious cycle. For example, chronic constipation can cause discomfort and frustration, which may worsen feelings of anxiety or depression. Similarly, individuals who are stressed or anxious may experience constipation, which then increases their stress and anxiety levels, leading to more digestive issues. This cycle can make it difficult to break free from both mental health struggles and digestive problems.

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    When to Seek Medical Help

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    While occasional constipation is common and can often be managed with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter remedies, there are times when seeking medical help is crucial. If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider as soon as possible:

    No Improvement After Home Treatment

    If you’ve tried dietary changes, increased water intake, or OTC remedies, but your constipation persists or worsens, it may indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention. A healthcare professional can help identify the cause and provide a more effective treatment plan.

    Severe Abdominal Pain or Bloating

    Constant or severe abdominal pain, bloating, or discomfort can signal more serious conditions such as intestinal obstruction or gastrointestinal disorders. If the pain is intense or doesn’t subside, seek medical care promptly.

    Blood in Stool or Rectal Bleeding

    The presence of blood in your stool or rectal bleeding is a serious concern and should never be ignored. This could be a sign of hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or more severe conditions such as gastrointestinal bleeding or colorectal cancer. Immediate evaluation is necessary to determine the cause.

    Sudden or Unexplained Weight Loss

    Unexplained weight loss, combined with constipation, can point to more serious health problems such as metabolic disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, or even cancer. This symptom requires professional evaluation to rule out any underlying health conditions.

    Constipation Lasting More Than 2 Weeks

    If constipation lasts for more than two weeks without improvement, it may indicate chronic constipation or a more serious medical condition. A healthcare provider can conduct tests and offer treatments to address the issue before it becomes more complicated.

    If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to visit Nextgen Primary Care. Our team is here to provide you with expert care, determine the underlying cause of your symptoms, and offer timely treatment to get you back on the road to recovery.

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    Treatment Options for Constipation

    Finding relief from constipation often begins with simple lifestyle adjustments, but in some cases, medical intervention may be necessary. Below are the most common and effective treatment options to help restore healthy bowel function.

    For many people, constipation can be managed by making changes to diet and daily habits. These natural approaches support overall digestive health and often provide long-term benefits.

    • Increase Fiber Intake: Eating more fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes helps soften stools and promotes regular bowel movements.
    • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps prevent stool from becoming hard and difficult to pass.
    • Get Moving: Regular physical activity, such as walking, stretching, or light exercise, can stimulate intestinal activity and promote regularity.
    • Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: These can cause dehydration, which contributes to constipation. Reducing your intake can help improve bowel function.

    When lifestyle changes aren’t enough, certain OTC products can offer relief. However, these should be used with care and ideally under a healthcare provider’s guidance.

    • Stool Softeners: Help make bowel movements easier by drawing water into the stool, making it softer.
    • Fiber Supplements: Products like psyllium (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel) add bulk to the stool and help move it through the intestines.
    • Mild Laxatives: These may be recommended for short-term use, but frequent or long-term use can lead to dependency or worsen symptoms if not monitored properly.

    If constipation is frequent, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, medical evaluation is essential to rule out underlying health issues.

    • Chronic Constipation Evaluation: A healthcare provider may assess for conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), thyroid disorders, or neurological issues.
    • Prescription Medications: If natural remedies and OTC products aren’t effective, prescription medications may be used to stimulate bowel activity or adjust digestive function.
    • Further Testing: In more severe cases, diagnostic tools such as blood tests, X-rays, or colonoscopy may be necessary to identify the root cause of constipation.

    Relief from constipation is possible with the right combination of care and treatment. At Nextgen Primary Care, our team can help assess your symptoms and recommend a personalized plan to get your digestive health back on track.

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    Facts About Constipation

    Constipation is a common digestive issue, but many people are unsure about its causes, symptoms, and treatments. Understanding the key facts about constipation can help you manage your health and know when to seek professional care. Here are some essential facts to know:

    While constipation is often thought to be a problem only for older adults, it can affect people of all ages, from children to seniors. In fact, studies show that nearly 20% of adults experience constipation at some point in their lives, and children can also suffer from it.

    Constipation is not just about how often you have a bowel movement. It’s also characterized by difficulty passing stools, which may be hard, dry, or lumpy. Straining, feeling like you haven’t fully evacuated, and abdominal discomfort are all part of the condition.

    A diet low in fiber is one of the most common causes of constipation. Fiber helps bulk up stool and aids in moving it through the digestive system. Foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are excellent sources of fiber that help prevent constipation.

    Not drinking enough water can contribute to constipation. Dehydration causes the colon to absorb more water from the stool, making it harder and drier. To stay regular, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids, particularly water.

    Both stress and lack of physical activity can contribute to constipation. When you’re stressed, your body’s normal digestive process may slow down, leading to constipation. Similarly, not getting enough exercise can reduce intestinal motility, making it harder for food to pass through the system.

    If constipation is persistent and doesn’t improve with lifestyle changes, it could indicate a more serious issue, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), hypothyroidism, or even colon cancer. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional if your symptoms last for more than two weeks or if you notice alarming signs like blood in your stool.

    While laxatives can provide temporary relief, using them too frequently can lead to dependency and make constipation worse. It’s important to address the underlying causes of constipation rather than relying on laxatives as a long-term solution.

    Exercise can help promote healthy bowel function by stimulating the muscles in the intestines, making it easier for stool to pass. A simple daily walk or light exercise routine can go a long way in preventing constipation.

    In many cases, constipation can be managed and even resolved with changes to your diet, hydration habits, and physical activity. Increasing fiber intake, drinking more water, and staying active can help restore regular bowel movements.

    Understanding these facts can help you take proactive steps to prevent or treat constipation. If lifestyle changes aren’t enough or if you have concerns, seeking professional care is always a good option.

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    Common Symptoms of Constipation

    Constipation doesn’t just mean fewer trips to the bathroom—it often comes with several uncomfortable symptoms that can affect your daily life. Understanding these signs can help you recognize constipation early and take steps to address it before it worsens.

    1. Infrequent Bowel Movements

    One of the most common signs of constipation is having fewer than three bowel movements per week. This slowdown in digestion can lead to a buildup of waste in the body, causing discomfort and other related symptoms.

    2. Hard, Dry, or Lumpy Stools

    When stool stays in the colon too long, the body absorbs too much water from it, making it hard, dry, or lumpy. These types of stools are often difficult or painful to pass and may indicate ongoing constipation.

    3. Straining During Bowel Movements

    If you frequently find yourself pushing or straining while using the bathroom, it could be a sign of constipation. Straining puts pressure on the rectum and can lead to complications like hemorrhoids or anal fissures.

    A Feeling of Incomplete
    Evacuation

    Many people with constipation feel like they haven’t fully emptied their bowels even after going. This lingering sensation can be frustrating and uncomfortable, making trips to the bathroom feel unsatisfying.

    5. Abdominal Bloating or
    Discomfort

    Constipation often causes bloating or a sense of fullness in the abdomen. This happens because stool remains in the colon longer than it should, which can lead to gas buildup and a swollen belly.

    6. Decreased Appetite or General
    Discomfort

    When your digestive system slows down, you might feel less hungry than usual. Constipation can also create a general feeling of discomfort or sluggishness, impacting energy levels and overall well-being.

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    How Nextgen Primary Care Can Help

    At Nextgen Primary Care, we understand that constipation can be uncomfortable and disruptive to your daily life. Our team is here to provide fast, effective, and compassionate care to help you find relief. Here’s how we can support you:

    Our experienced healthcare professionals will promptly assess your symptoms to determine the root cause of your constipation. Whether it’s related to diet, lifestyle, or an underlying medical condition, we’ll work with you to pinpoint the issue and provide targeted treatment options.

    No two patients are the same, so we tailor our treatment plans to your specific needs. Our care includes personalized dietary advice, guidance on over-the-counter remedies, and, if necessary, prescription medications to help manage your symptoms effectively. We’re committed to finding the right solution for you.

    We believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge they need to manage their digestive health long-term. Our team provides valuable guidance on preventing future constipation episodes through lifestyle changes, including diet, hydration, and physical activity.

    With our walk-in clinic model, you don’t have to wait for an appointment. Whether you need immediate relief or just a quick consultation, we’re here to help. Our convenient hours and easy access ensure you get the care you need, when you need it.

    Constipation can sometimes require ongoing care. If your symptoms persist or if specialized care is needed, we offer follow-up support and referrals to gastrointestinal specialists for further evaluation. We’re here to support you throughout your recovery journey.

    Nextgen Primary Care is dedicated to providing you with the best care and guidance to manage and overcome constipation. Visit us today for a professional, friendly, and convenient healthcare experience.

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    Patient Testimonials

    At NextGen Primary Care, our patients are at the heart of everything we do. We’re deeply grateful for the trust they’ve placed in us, and we’re honored to hear about the positive experiences they’ve had with our compassionate care, quick service, and dedicated team. Here’s what a few of our patients have shared about their time with us:

    Laura M. Houston TX
    Nextgen Primary Care patient review - Laura M

    I’ve been searching for a family doctor who truly cares about my family’s health, and I finally found that at NextGen Primary Care. I took my son in for a routine physical, and I was blown away by how thorough and attentive the doctor was. They answered all my questions and made sure we felt completely comfortable. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and the entire experience was smooth and stress-free. I’m so grateful to have found a place that truly prioritizes patient care.

    5-star rating for Nextgen Primary Care clinic
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    Chris J. Houston TX
    Nextgen Primary Care patient review - Chris J

    I had an urgent health issue last weekend, and I didn’t know where to go. Thankfully, I found NextGen Primary Care, and they got me in right away. The doctor was so caring and made sure I understood my condition and treatment options. I was in and out quickly, and I left feeling so relieved. The convenience of weekend urgent care is such a huge help for busy families like mine. I’m so thankful for the compassionate care I received, and I’ll definitely return if I need urgent care again.

    5-star rating for Nextgen Primary Care clinic
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    Samantha R. Houston, TX
    Nextgen Primary Care patient review - Samantha R

    I’ve always dreaded going to the doctor, but my experience at NextGen Primary Care completely changed that. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly staff, and the doctor took the time to listen to my concerns. I had a physical exam, and the doctor explained every detail to me in a way that was easy to understand. I felt completely at ease, and I left the clinic feeling confident and cared for. It’s hard to find a doctor who truly listens, and I’m so happy to have found one here.

    5-star rating for Nextgen Primary Care clinic
    Google rating for Nextgen Primary Care

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    At NextGen Primary Care, we understand the importance of accessible healthcare, which is why we offer convenient hours and flexible scheduling. Our clinic is here to serve you, whether you need urgent care, primary care, or specialized treatment.

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    6306 Gulfton St #203,
    Houston, TX 77081

    Consultation Schedule

    Mon – Wed: 9:00AM – 7:00PM
    Thu – Fri: 9:00AM – 6:30PM
    Sat: 9:00AM – 4:30PM

    Get in Touch

    Phone: 281-888-7289
    Email: info@nextgenpcp.com

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    Your Path to Digestive Health Starts at Nextgen Primary Care

    Constipation is undoubtedly uncomfortable, but the good news is that it’s treatable with the right approach. Whether you’re experiencing occasional bouts of constipation or dealing with a more chronic condition, Nextgen Primary Care is here to help. Our team provides accessible, compassionate care tailored to your needs, ensuring that you get the relief and support you deserve.

    Don’t let digestive discomfort take over your life—reach out to us today for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan. We’re committed to helping you restore your digestive health and get back to feeling your best.

    Walk-in appointments 

    Quick and accurate assessments

    Personalized care plans

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    Call Us Now!

    (281) 888 – 7289