Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that can cause frequent diarrhea and constipation. According to doctors, constipation is when a person has three for less bowel movements a week. Other symptoms of constipation can be dry or painful stools, and feeling incomplete evacuation.

There can be many reasons why people with Crohn’s disease sometimes feel constipation. These reasons can be due to certain medication, a low fiber diet, not enough exercise, strictures, not drinking enough fluids, and eating too little.

Treatments for constipation can include dietary and lifestyle changes, such as adding more fiber into your diet, drinking more fluids and getting more exercise. Other treatments include prescription medications that help with bowel movement, stopping medications that cause constipation, and bowel training.

Constipation can lead to abdominal pain and can cause blockage in the bowels. If blockage is left untreated, this can lead to life-threatening complications such as tearing in the intestine. Symptoms of blockage include severe abdominal pain, high fever, nausea, vomiting, and inability to pass gas. If these symptoms are present, speak with a doctor immediately.

Read more about Crohn’s disease and constipation.