At 64, is my dad’s constipation related to IBS C?

Question

Hello doctor,

My father is 64 years old and has had chronic constipation and abdominal bloating for about 10 months. He passes stool every three to four days and often strains during bowel movements. Sometimes he feels dull abdominal discomfort on the lower right side. His hemoglobin is 11.2 g/dL, his cholesterol is high, and he takes statins. Colonoscopy done six months ago was normal, and doctors said it could be irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). Please tell me,

At his age, how can we be sure it is IBS-C and not something serious like colon cancer?
What long-term treatment options are available?
Are fiber supplements enough, or are medications needed?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

As your father already had a normal colonoscopy six months ago, the likelihood of a serious condition such as colon cancer is extremely low. Colonoscopy is the most reliable test for detecting conditions like

Tumors.
Polyps.
Structural disease in the colon.

When it is normal and symptoms such as constipation, bloating, and abdominal discomfort persist, doctors often consider IBS-C or functional constipation, which are common and non-dangerous conditions, even in older adults.

His mild anemia (hemoglobin 11.2 g/dL) should still be monitored, but the normal colonoscopy is reassuring. Other factors can also contribute to constipation. These include:

Diet.
Reduced physical activity.
Medications.
Dehydration, or slow intestinal motility with aging,

Long-term treatment usually starts with lifestyle and dietary measures, and the following things,

Increase fiber intake gradually through foods like vegetables, fruits, oats, or supplements such as psyllium.
Adequate hydration and regular physical activity can help regulate bowel movements. However, fiber alone is not always enough.
Many patients benefit from osmotic laxatives such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) or lactulose, which soften the stool and are generally safe for long-term use under medical supervision.

If symptoms remain troublesome, doctors may prescribe medications that improve intestinal motility and reduce bloating.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.