COVID-19 and Constipation

• Constipation is not typically listed as a primary symptom of COVID-19, but being ill can create conditions that may lead to constipation.
• “Quarantine constipation” may arise due to reduced movement and increased sedentary behavior during stay-at-home orders and quarantines.
• Certain medications used to treat COVID-19 can contribute to constipation.
• Constipation is a common gastrointestinal issue that can be temporary and can often be managed with self-care measures.

Although COVID-19 is classified as a respiratory illness, patients have reported several other symptoms that aren’t often associated with these types of illnesses. One of those symptoms is constipation.1 

In this article, we’ll discuss the link between COVID-19 and constipation, from its causes to how to remedy the discomfort of this symptom.

Constipation is when you can not pass stools regularly or cannot empty your bowel. Several contributing factors may lead to constipation, including:2 3

• Insufficient fiber intake, such as from fruits, vegetables, and cereals
• Modifications in your daily habits or lifestyle, like changes in eating patterns
• Neglecting the urge to have bowel movements
• Adverse effects of certain medications
• Inadequate fluid consumption
• Experiencing anxiety or depression

In the context of COVID-19, several of these factors may lead one to develop constipation.4 1

• Change of routine. During lockdown or being sick, you may change your diet, water intake, exercise regime, and/or daily habits.
• Stress and anxiety. The stress, anxiety, and fear associated with contracting COVID-19 can have a psychological impact on individuals, leading to changes in eating habits. Emotional distress may suppress appetite or lead to emotional eating, resulting in fluctuations in food intake.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms. COVID-19 can affect various organs, including the gastrointestinal system. The virus can directly invade the cells lining the digestive tract, causing inflammation and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.

For most cases of constipation during COVID-19, you can treat it at home by doing the following:5 

• Ensure sufficient fiber intake in your diet
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Establish a set time each day for your bowel movement
• Take an over-the-counter medication like Metamucil or Milk of Dulcolax

If the above treatments do not help, your doctor may prescribe medication to address the constipation. They can also assess if any over-the-counter or prescription medicines or supplements you may be taking to treat your COVID-19 are causing constipation, and they can help to adjust the dosage, switch you to an alternative, or recommend discontinuing their use.

You should speak to your doctor right away if any of the following accompanies your constipation:

• Stool with visible blood
• Rectal bleeding
• Continuous abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Presence of fever
• Lower back pain
• Unintended weight loss
• Persistent gas discomfort

While constipation is not commonly listed as a primary symptom of COVID-19, being unwell can create conditions that may lead to constipation due to changes in diet, reduced water intake, and decreased activity levels. Certain medications used to treat COVID-19 can also contribute to constipation in some patients.

It's crucial to recognize that constipation is a prevalent gastrointestinal issue that can affect individuals for various reasons independent of COVID-19. In most cases, constipation is a temporary problem that can be managed effectively with self-care measures, dietary adjustments, increased hydration, and, if necessary, over-the-counter remedies. 

If you experience constipation during or after a COVID-19 illness or suspect any health-related concerns, seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

Q: Is constipation a symptom of COVID-19?
A: While constipation is not commonly listed as a primary symptom of COVID-19, being unwell can create conditions that may lead to constipation, such as changes in diet, reduced water intake, and decreased activity levels. Certain medications used to treat COVID-19 can also contribute to constipation in some patients.

Q: How can COVID-19 constipation be managed?
A: In many cases, constipation can be managed at home with various self-care measures. However, you should contact your doctor if you notice alarming signs such as stool with visible blood, rectal bleeding, continuous abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, lower back pain, or unintended weight loss.

Q: Should I call my doctor about my constipation with COVID-19?
A: In many cases, constipation can be managed at home with various self-care measures. However, you should contact your doctor if you notice alarming signs such as stool with visible blood, rectal bleeding, continuous abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, lower back pain, or unintended weight loss.

Q: What is quarantine constipation?
A: Implementing stay-at-home orders and quarantines results in reduced physical activity, leading to a phenomenon known as "quarantine constipation." When physical activity decreases or stops, the bowels may not effectively push stools through the digestive system. Moreover, prolonged sitting can compress the colon, further adding to the problem of constipation. 

Q: How long does constipation with COVID-19 last?
A: The duration of constipation can vary significantly from person to person and depends on individual circumstances. In most cases, constipation is temporary and should resolve once you start eating normally and returning to your routine.