Is it possible to have both constipation and gas?

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Sometimes, people may experience constipation accompanied by symptoms of intestinal gas. Signs and symptoms of both conditions may include:

Constipation

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) states that the symptoms of constipation may include:

• fewer than 3 bowel movements a week
• stools that are hard, dry, or lumpy
• stools that are painful or difficult to pass
• a feeling that not all stool has passed

Intestinal gas

Gas in the digestive tract may cause the following symptoms:

• belching or burping
• bloating and distension in the abdomen
• pain or discomfort in the abdomen
• passing gas

The NIDDK explains that certain foods and drinks contain carbohydrates in the form of sugars, starches, and fiber, that the stomach and small intestine do not fully digest. The carbohydrates that the small intestine has not digested pass into the large intestine. Here, bacteria help to break them down further and create gas in the process.

Therefore, the NIDDK notes that people who consume more carbohydrates that the stomach and small intestine do not fully digest may experience more gas.

Sometimes people may have a condition called small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). This is when there are excess colonic bacteria in the small intestine. Normally, gastric acid inhibits the growth of bacteria in the small intestine, but when these mechanisms fail, SIBO can develop, causing gas and bloating.

The NIDDK also notes that constipation may lead to more gas or gas symptoms.

People may experience constipation due to the following causes:

• the stool moving more slowly through the colon
• not eating enough fiber
• not drinking enough liquids
• pelvic floor disorders
• functional gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• certain medicines or dietary supplements
• changes in daily routines or life changes such as pregnancy
• health conditions such as celiac disease, diabetes, or hypothyroidism

There are a number of remedies and treatments for constipation and gas. These can include:

Dietary changes

Experts advise people with constipation to eat enough fiber. Good sources of fiber include:

• whole grains such as whole wheat pasta and bread, oatmeal, and buckwheat
• lentils, chickpeas, and beans
• fruits and vegetables
• nuts and seeds

In addition, someone must make sure they maintain adequate hydration with water and other liquids to make the stool softer and easier to pass. Avoiding processed foods, meat, and fast foods may also improve constipation.

To avoid gas in the digestive tract, the NIDDK advises avoiding foods and drinks that the stomach and intestine do not fully digest. These may include:

• fruits such as apples, peaches, and pears
• fruit juices
• cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale
• peas, beans, and lentils
• dairy products
• whole grains such as whole wheat
• sugary drinks, sports drinks, and energy drinks
• carbonated drinks such as soda and beer
• foods with added sugars, such as candy, cakes, and desserts
• foods or drinks containing sweeteners such as sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, and erythritol

However, while some fibrous foods can relieve constipation, some people have more gas symptoms when they consume too much fiber. As such, people should aim to find out what they tolerate and can consult a dietitian to help them do this.

Changing eating and drinking habits

A doctor may recommend that someone changes their eating and drinking habits to relieve gas. For example, they may recommend:

• eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large meals
• eating slowly while sitting down and avoiding eating on-the-go
• avoiding talking while eating or drinking
• limiting chewing gum, sucking on candy, drinking fizzy drinks, and drinking through a straw

Special diets

Health experts may recommend a special diet if a person has digestive symptoms such as gas or constipation due to a health condition. For example:

• a gluten-free diet for celiac disease
• managing the amount of lactose in the diet for someone who is lactose intolerant
• reducing fructose for a person who has symptoms of fructose intolerance
• trying a low FODMAP diet for an individual with IBS

People can also consult a dietitian to see if a special diet may be suitable for them.

Medications

For gas and bloating, people may find the following treatments helpful:

• antispasmodics, such as dicyclomine or hyoscyamine
• antibiotics for SIBO
• simethicone, bismuth subsalicylate, or Alpha-d-galactosidase
• charcoal tablets

In addition, ginger may be effective for relieving gas and digestive symptoms, although evidence is inconclusive. People can purchase ginger supplements or eat freshly grated root.

Some frequently asked questions may include:

Can constipation make you gassy?

Experts advise that constipation can cause symptoms of gas or make gas worse.

How do people get rid of constipation and gas?

People may improve or prevent constipation and gas by including more fiber or water and avoiding foods that ferment in the colon.

Why do people have so much gas but cannot poop?

Factors such as not drinking enough fluids or not eating enough fiber can cause constipation and make the stool hard to pass. A person can speak with their doctor to assess why they have constipation and gas.

People may become constipated because they are not eating enough fiber, are experiencing dehydration, or have a health condition.

Gas may develop if someone eats too many foods that do not fully digest in the small intestine and ferment in the colon. Sometimes, the same fiber-rich foods that help relieve constipation may not fully digest in the small intestine and can cause gas. Therefore, a person may require a health professional to help them determine what to eat.

Someone with constipation and gas can speak with their doctor, who may advise dietary changes or medication. Avoiding chewing gum, carbonated drinks, and eating on the go may also help to relieve symptoms.