What Causes Chronic Lower Back Pain And Constipation?

Posted on Mon, 4 Apr 2016

Question: I have chronic lower back pain, but it has gotten worse the past week. I have noticed that I have not passed a stool in almost five days. Should I be worried?

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (7 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
need some details to guide you better

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thank You for contacting HCM. My name is Dr Muhammad Ali Rauf & i will look into your problem.

I have gone through your query and would try to help you in the best possible way. There could be a number of causes for you complaint. I would be in a better position to guide you anything if you answer following questions please:

1. Since when are you having backache?
2. any history of trauma to back?
3. are you on any medication?
4. do you or anyone in the family has history of diabetes, hypertension, joint problem or any other illness?
5. any history of fever, joint pain or joint swelling?
6. does pain radiates to leg or thigh?
7. Are you able to pass flatus?
8. what is your normal daily diet?

I will be looking forward for the answers to conclude the discussion in the best interest of yours.
Thank You

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (10 minutes later)

I have had back issues for 10 years now. I injured it again September of 2015, and the pain has not gone completely away. I have had bulging discs that reoccur on occasion. That is what the recent back injury is. I take Valtrex and Lamotrigine. I also take Propanolol and Oxcarbazapine. I also take fiber supplements and a multivitamin. I am adopted, so I do not have much family medical history. No pain radiating to the leg. I have not had gas for several days upon further reflection. My normal daily diet is Greek yogurt and a banana with some coffee for breakfast, veggies (usually a salad with chicken), and for dinner I have quinoa and more protein. I drink water most of the day after my coffee is gone .

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Please see details

Detailed Answer:
Hello

thank you for getting back with the answers. I have gone through them. I'll address your both issues separately.:

> Constipation:

1. Increase Dietary fiber intake:
It is available in multiple forms like fresh fruits, vegetables & cereals.

2. Increase fluids intake:
it is the key to treatment. Take at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Avoid milk & milk products because in some cases it aggravates constipation.

3. Oral stool softeners:
They are easy to use and have shown good results. Some of the OTC includes Colace & Surfak. Avoid long term use.

4. Methyl Cellulose is a bulk producing laxative is OTC. You can take 2 caplets after every 6hrs.

I would suggest you to first go with dietary management. If it persists then you can go for OTC medicines. Hopefully you will see improvement in 1-2 days BUT if condition remains same or aggravates then you need to visit hospital for further management.

> Backache:
As you have chronic back pain and disc buldge so i would suggest you to get a MRI Lumbo Sacral spine done and get it discussed with an orthopedic surgeon. If there is increased bulge or radial tear (two common causes of persistent pain) then he will advise further management accordingly. Meanwhile you should get physiotherapy and naproxen thrice a day for pain.

Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help if not then don't forget to close the discussion and rate it.
Wishing you good health !!

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar