If you're experiencing hard rabbit droppings or lumpy sausage stools, it could indicate chronic constipation, and it's essential to seek a solution.

Professor Jun Yu-kyung, a gastroenterology expert from Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, discussed on the hospital's YouTube channel how chronic constipation can be suspected when observing two distinct stool types. These types include hard, rabbit-like lumpy stool and sausage-like, but lumpy stool, as per the Bristol Stool Scale, which categorizes stool into seven different types.

Furthermore, if your stool exhibits characteristics such as sausage-like with surface cracks, soft normal stools, semi-solid loose stools, loose stools with undefined boundaries and no distinct shape, or entirely liquid stools without any solid components, it's unlikely that you are experiencing chronic constipation. There are additional indicators to consider when diagnosing chronic constipation.

Jun said while many individuals visit the hospital with concerns about constipation due to hard stools or difficulty passing stools, the diagnosis of chronic constipation typically entails a person passing stools only two to three times a week consistently for a minimum of three months out of a six-month period.

If you suspect you might have chronic constipation, Professor Jun outlines three essential steps to follow. 

Step 1

The first step is to ensure you maintain sufficient food and fluid intake. 

“A significant factor contributing to constipation is inadequate food and water consumption,” Jun said. She pointed out that constipation is frequently linked to reduced food and water intake, particularly among the elderly.

Jeon advised, "Preventing constipation can be achieved by maintaining an appropriate food and water intake rather than skipping meals. When eating, it is advisable to incorporate fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to ensure adequate water absorption. This dietary approach can effectively soften the stool and enhance stool volume, ultimately aiding in the management of constipation."

Step 2

The second step involves incorporating regular exercise into your routine. 

"In the modern world, many individuals face constipation due to a sedentary lifestyle. Not moving your body can contribute to this issue," she said.

Jun recommends engaging in activities such as brisk walking, jogging, running, swimming, or jumping rope for a minimum of 30 minutes, three to four times a week. 

It's essential to exercise with enough intensity to induce sweating and shortness of breath, as this can be beneficial in addressing constipation.

Step 3

If steps 1 and 2 do not yield improvement for chronic constipation, the next course of action is step 3, which involves considering medication options.

There is a wide range of constipation medications available, and selecting the most suitable one for long-term use should consider factors like your age and underlying medical conditions, according to Jun. 

"Occasionally, individuals avoid medication due to concerns about developing resistance or experiencing side effects. However, if your constipation persists despite maintaining a healthy diet, staying well-hydrated, and engaging in regular exercise, it is advisable to seek guidance from a medical professional to identify the appropriate medication."

Proactive management needed

Chronic constipation can occasionally serve as an indicator of an underlying medical condition, underscoring the importance of taking a proactive approach to addressing it.

Jun pointed out, "On certain occasions, constipation may arise from conditions such as colon cancer, which leads to the constriction of the colon, or other health issues like Parkinson's disease, dementia, and hypothyroidism." 

She stressed the significance of identifying the root cause of constipation, particularly if you experience symptoms such as bloody or black stools, unintended weight loss, or have a family history of colon cancer.