What Are the Dangerous Signs of Constipation?

Constipation is a common concern, but it’s important to recognize when it might signal a more serious underlying health issue. While most cases are temporary—often related to diet, hydration, or changes in routine—there are times when you should seek medical care.

Our experienced medical team is here to help if your constipation lasts more than two weeks despite lifestyle changes, or if you develop severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or an inability to pass gas. These symptoms can indicate conditions that require prompt attention.

Additionally, if you notice blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or a sudden change in your bowel habits—especially if you are over 50—it’s important to be evaluated for more serious conditions such as bowel obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, or colorectal cancer.

Other warning signs include persistent fatigue, pencil-thin stools, or a family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. If you experience any of these symptoms along with constipation, or if your symptoms are getting worse, don’t wait—visit Columbia Clinic Urgent Care for a thorough assessment. Early evaluation can help rule out serious problems and give you peace of mind.

At Columbia Clinic Urgent Care, our healthcare providers are here to help if your constipation persists for more than three weeks, or if you experience severe pain, blood in your stool, or unexplained weight loss.

You should also visit Columbia Clinic Urgent Care if your constipation is accompanied by vomiting, persistent abdominal swelling, or if you are unable to pass gas or have any bowel movements at all. Individuals with a personal or family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease, and those over the age of 50 experiencing new or worsening symptoms, should seek prompt medical evaluation.

Early consultation with our team ensures that you receive the appropriate diagnosis and treatment, especially if your symptoms could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. Don’t hesitate to visit us—we’re committed to your digestive health and overall well-being.

The frequency of bowel movements can vary significantly from person to person, but most medical professionals agree that going longer than three days without a bowel movement is generally considered too long. After about three days, stool becomes harder and more difficult to pass, increasing the risk of constipation and discomfort.

At Columbia Clinic Urgent Care, we frequently see patients concerned about changes in their bowel habits. While some individuals may naturally have less frequent bowel movements, such as every other day, a sudden change in your usual pattern or going more than three days without passing stool should be monitored. Prolonged periods without a bowel movement can lead to complications such as fecal impaction, abdominal pain, bloating, and even more serious issues if left untreated.

If you regularly experience infrequent bowel movements or notice additional symptoms like severe abdominal pain, vomiting, blood in your stool, or unintentional weight loss, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Our experienced healthcare providers can assess your symptoms, determine if an underlying condition may be contributing, and recommend appropriate treatment or lifestyle modifications.

Maintaining a balanced diet high in fiber, staying well hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity can help promote regular bowel movements. However, persistent constipation should never be ignored, as it can sometimes be a sign of a more serious health problem.

Constipation is a common condition that many people experience from time to time. However, certain warning signs may indicate a more serious underlying problem and require prompt medical attention. Our experienced providers are here to help diagnose and manage your symptoms to ensure your health and peace of mind.

You should visit Columbia Clinic Urgent Care right away if you experience any of the following symptoms with constipation:

●Severe abdominal pain or cramping that does not improve could signal a blockage or another serious issue.
●Sudden onset of constipation, especially if you previously had regular bowel movements, and particularly if you are over the age of 50.
●Blood in the stool (bright red or dark and tarry) may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, hemorrhoids, or other serious conditions such as colon cancer.
●Unintentional weight loss in combination with constipation may point to a more serious disease process.
●Vomiting, especially if persistent or accompanied by severe pain, could suggest an intestinal obstruction and requires immediate evaluation.
●A personal history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or other gastrointestinal disorders with new or worsening constipation.
●No bowel movement for more than a week despite home treatments, or constipation accompanied by fever or back pain.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait—visit Columbia Clinic Urgent Care. Early recognition and treatment are essential to prevent complications and address any serious underlying causes. Our caring team is ready to provide the prompt attention and comprehensive care you need.

For more information, please contact us or request an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you at Tibbetts St, Portland, Stark Street, Portland and Tigard, OR. We serve patients from Tibbetts St Portland, Milwaukie OR, Oak Grove OR, Stark Street Portland, Fairview OR, Happy Valley OR, Gladstone OR, Cedar Mill OR, Tibbetts Street Portland OR, West Linn OR, Aloha OR, Tigard OR, Lake Oswego OR, Tualatin OR, Oregon City OR, and surrounding areas. We also accept walk-ins.