Constipation can be categorized based on underlying mechanisms, each requiring specific diagnostic approaches and targeted treatment strategies for optimal outcomes.
| Type | Primary Mechanism | Common Symptoms | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slow Transit Constipation | Delayed colonic motility (dysmotility) | Infrequent bowel movements, bloating, feeling of fullness | Often requires prokinetic agents and gut motility support |
| Dyssynergic Defecation (Pelvic Floor Dysfunction) | Inability to coordinate pelvic floor muscles during defecation | Excessive straining, incomplete evacuation, need for manual maneuvers | Responds best to biofeedback therapy and pelvic floor rehabilitation |
| Normal Transit Constipation | Functional disorder with normal colonic transit | Hard stools, difficulty evacuating, abdominal discomfort | Often related to dietary factors, dehydration, or lifestyle issues |
| Combination Approaches | Combination of slow transit and outlet dysfunction | Variable symptoms, poor response to single treatments | Requires comprehensive approach addressing multiple mechanisms |
Comprehensive constipation evaluation goes beyond symptom assessment to identify the specific mechanisms and root causes driving your digestive dysfunction. At Whole Gut Health, we use advanced diagnostics to determine the most effective treatment approach for your individual needs.
Testing options may include:
We customize testing protocols based on your symptom pattern, medical history, and previous treatment responses to ensure comprehensive evaluation.
Our Three-Phase Constipation Protocol Includes:
1. Assessment and Root-Cause Identification
2. Targeted Intervention
3. Rebuilding and Prevention
Dr. Alexandra Shustina, NYC’s and Miami’s premier gut health specialist doctor is a board-certified gastroenterologist and internist. She is a gut health specialist with training in conventional gastroenterology and functional gut health. She is an expert in the gut microbiome and its role in health and wellness.
At Whole Gut Health, our care is led by experienced functional medicine clinicians with a deep understanding of the gut microbiome and advanced diagnostics. We combine evidence-based strategies from conventional gastroenterology with a functional and integrative lens to give you the clarity and support needed for long-term healing.
Chronic constipation is a symptom-based disorder characterized by unsatisfactory defecation, including infrequent bowel movements (fewer than three per week), difficulty passing stools, hard stools, straining, or feeling of incomplete evacuation. It represents dysfunction in the complex process of defecation involving the colon, pelvic floor muscles, and nervous system.
Slow Transit Constipation
Dyssynergic Defecation (Pelvic Floor Dysfunction)
Normal Transit Constipation
Mixed Pattern Constipation
Comprehensive constipation evaluation identifies specific mechanisms and root causes. Testing options include:
Testing protocols are customized based on symptom pattern and medical history.
Our comprehensive three-phase constipation protocol includes:
Phase 1: Assessment and Root-Cause Identification
Phase 2: Targeted Intervention
Phase 3: Rebuilding and Prevention
Different constipation types require different treatment approaches. For example:
Yes, our goal is to help you achieve natural bowel function without laxative dependence. We provide gradual weaning protocols while addressing root causes and supporting natural motility. This process requires patience and proper guidance to ensure comfortable transition to medication-free bowel function.
At Whole Gut Health, we move beyond laxative management to identify and treat the root causes of constipation. Our approach focuses on:
Dr. Alexandra Shustina is a board-certified gastroenterologist and internist who serves as NYC's and Miami's premier gut health specialist. She has training in both conventional gastroenterology and functional gut health, with expertise in the gut microbiome and its role in health and wellness.
The first step is scheduling a comprehensive consultation where we'll:
Contact our office to schedule your initial consultation and begin your journey toward natural, comfortable bowel function without laxative dependence.
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