Chronic constipation is not a disease but it is the symptom of any under lying disease which could be potentially life threatening. A latest study finding which was published in AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY-HEART AND CIRCULATORY PHYSIOLOGY unrevealed the hidden association between constipation and cardiovascular diseases risk. According to finding people who are constipated have 2-fold increase risk of cardiovascular events (heart attack, heart failure and stroke) while people who have constipation and hypertension are 34% more prone to cardiovascular disease as compare to those people who have hypertension without constipation.
STUDY FINDINGS OF 2020
A 2020 study unrevealed the link between blood clots and constipation.
STUDY FINDINGS OF 2016
A 2016 study found that irregular bowel movement increases the risk of death from cardiovascular events. Let’s discuss,
WHAT IS CONSTIPATION?
Constipation is defined as decreased evacuation/defection frequency or incomplete feeling of evacuation or difficulty in passing the stool or having bowel movements less than 3 times per week.
WHY CONSTIPATION IS SUPPOSED TO BE RISK FACTOR FOR CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS?
Constipation is supposed to be risk factor for cardiovascular events because both medical conditions shared the common risk factors. Although it is very difficult to establish some direct relation between both the conditions due to limited research.
HOW CONSTIPATION INCREASES THE RISK OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES?
There are many theories which explain the association between constipation and risk of cardiovascular diseases which are as follow,
DYSBIOSIS
Constipation causes disruption of gut microbiota which may cause disturbance in local enteric nervous system, immune system and lead to inflammation which is one of the most leading risk factors for heart disease.
LOW FIBER DIET INTAKE
Low fiber diet is common risk factor for constipation and heart disease. A diet rich in fiber like fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts not only reduces constipation but also reduce cholesterol and body weight which are critical risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.
PHYSICAL INACTIVITY AND EXCERCISE
Lack of physical activity is the shared risk factor for constipation and heart diseases.
Physical activity and exercise improve abdominal muscles contraction and peristalsis by increasing blood flow to gastrointestinal tract, by stimulating vagus nerve which regulate digestion and by releasing gut hormone. All these actions altogether not only improve constipation but also improves heart muscle’s function.
LINK BETWEEN STRAINING AND HYPERTENSION
Straining during passing the hard stool may raise transient blood pressure due to labored breathe which could be a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
CONSTPATION AND BLOOD CLOT
Straining at stool reduces blood flow and causes blood clot formation and become the higher risk factor for venous thromboembolism.
LINK BETWEEN ATHEROSCLEROSIS AND CONSTIPATION
Mental stress during Straining at stool, disruption of gut microbiota and low grade systemic inflammation in constipated people are the critical risk factor for arterial stiffness, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events.
MEDICATION
Certain medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, diuretic, calcium channels blockers and anti-depressants may cause constipation and become risk factor for cardiovascular events after long term use.
AGING AND GENETIC
Aging and genetic are the prominent risk factors of constipation and subsequently heart events.
CONCLUSION
We can say that it is premature to say that constipation will definitely cause heart issues but the latest study finding hints about the possible link between two conditions. Future research will assist us in understanding the possible association between two conditions. Constipation due to aging and genetic is not in our control but life style modification will definitely reduce the common risk factors of both the conditions and improve overall health and quality of life.