Constipation is one possible complication of ulcerative colitis (UC). Simple strategies like drinking more water and exercising may help you get relief.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation along the lining of your large intestine and rectum.

The most common symptoms of UC include:

  • diarrhea
  • stomach pain
  • frequent stools
  • rectal bleeding

However, some people with UC may also experience constipation.

Keep reading to learn more about the link between UC and constipation and six remedies for providing relief.

Constipation occurs when it’s difficult to pass stools or you pass stools less often than usual.

When constipation occurs as a result of UC, experts refer to it as proximal constipation or ulcerative colitis-associated constipation.

Constipation associated with UC occurs when you experience two or more of the following symptoms at least 3 days per week for 3 months:

  • pass fewer than three stools per week
  • abdominal pain
  • flatulence
  • strain during bowel movements
  • have hard, pellet-like stools
  • feel like you still need to go when you’ve already passed stool

Constipation may occur with UC due to inflammation and swelling in the rectum, which makes it difficult to pass stool.

If you have received a diagnosis of UC, your treatment plan may include prescription medications.

Sometimes, however, you may need other remedies to help manage constipation.

Hydration contributes to healthy gastrointestinal function.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDKD), drinking plenty of water each day can help soften stools and make them easier to pass. When you aren’t getting enough fluids, dehydration can make constipation more likely.

Try keeping water beside you during the day and taking sips every 20 minutes.

Consider limiting your intake of caffeinated beverages like coffee and cola, too. Caffeine is a diuretic, which may increase your risk of diarrhea and cause dehydration.

A healthcare professional may recommend osmotic laxatives, such as polyethylene glycol 3350 (MiraLAX), to help ease UC constipation.

This type of laxative induces bowel activity by increasing the amount of water in your intestines, which softens stools. This is a slow-acting laxative, so expect a bowel movement within 2 to 3 days.

Osmotic laxatives are usually recommended over other types for people with IBD, according to Crohn’s and Colitis UK. However, it’s important to talk with a doctor before using any type of laxative if you have UC.

Increasing your intake of dietary fiber may help soften stools and make them easier to pass, according to the NIDDKD.

However, high fiber foods and supplements should be avoided during a UC flare-up because fiber may increase abdominal bloating and discomfort. Flare-ups are periods when symptoms worsen or reappear.

As such, it’s important to speak with a doctor before making dietary modifications if you have UC.

It may also help to keep a food journal to identify potential foods contributing to constipation symptoms.

For example, your body may tolerate certain types of fruit but not others. Or you may experience worsening symptoms after eating broccoli or cabbage, but other types of vegetables aren’t a problem.

For most adults, the recommended amount of fiber is 22 to 34 grams per day.

Stool-bulking agents, also called bulk-forming laxatives, increase the fluid volume, weight, and consistency of your stools, making them easier to pass.

One type of bulk-forming laxative is psyllium fiber (Metamucil).

It’s important to take these laxatives as directed on the label and to drink plenty of water. Dehydration may cause other symptoms, such as bloating and further constipation.

Taking extra fiber during an active UC flare might worsen your condition. Talk with a doctor before starting a stool-bulking agent such as psyllium.

It may take up to 3 days for bulk-forming laxatives to work.

Decreased physical activity may also play a role in UC constipation.

A 2018 review found that regular exercise may help prevent constipation related to IBD.

The American Heart Association recommends getting at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.

If you’re new to exercising or unsure where to begin, speak with a personal trainer. They could help develop an exercise regime that’s right for you.

If you find that other lifestyle changes and treatments are not helping with constipation, ask a doctor about biofeedback.

Biofeedback is a type of physical therapy that retrains pelvic floor muscles through relaxation techniques, which in turn may stimulate bowel activity.

A 2018 study found that both inpatient and at-home biofeedback programs were beneficial in providing constipation relief.

However, it’s important to note that more research is needed to determine whether biofeedback is a safe and effective treatment method for constipation in people with UC.

If you decide to try biofeedback therapy, follow a doctor’s and physiotherapist’s recommendations for the best results.

Can you get constipation with ulcerative colitis?

Yes, it’s possible to experience constipation with ulcerative colitis.

What does a colitis flare feel like?

Ulcerative colitis flares may feel different for everyone. Some potential symptoms include diarrhea, stomach pain, more frequent stools, and flatulence, among others.

How many times a day do you poop with ulcerative colitis?

The frequency of stools varies for each person with ulcerative colitis. However, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service notes that people may experience six stools or more per day during a flare-up.

Can taking laxatives cause colitis?

Laxatives aren’t a direct cause of ulcerative colitis, but they may increase your risk of experiencing flare-up symptoms, such as diarrhea.

Constipation is a possible symptom of UC.

If you experience constipation and other symptoms, such as stomach pain and gas, speak with a healthcare professional. They could help modify your current treatment plan or develop a new one to help provide symptom relief.