Differential Diagnosis for No Bowel Movement 7 Days
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Constipation: This is the most common cause of not having a bowel movement for 7 days, often due to low fiber diet, inadequate fluid intake, or lack of physical activity.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Medication side effect: Certain medications such as opioids, anticholinergics, and iron supplements can cause constipation.
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland can slow down bowel movements.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves that control bowel function, leading to constipation.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can slow down bowel movements.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Intestinal obstruction: A blockage in the intestine can prevent bowel movements and is a medical emergency.
- Volvulus: A twisting of the intestine that can cut off blood supply and is life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Fecal impaction: A large, hard stool that can become stuck in the rectum and cause severe constipation.
- Spinal cord injury or disease: Damage to the spinal cord can disrupt the nerves that control bowel function.
Rare Diagnoses
- Hirschsprung's disease: A congenital condition where nerves are missing from parts of the bowel, leading to severe constipation.
- Chagas disease: A parasitic infection that can damage the nerves that control bowel function.
- Amyloidosis: A condition where abnormal proteins accumulate in the body and can affect the nerves that control bowel function.
- Scleroderma: A chronic disease that can cause the intestines to become scarred and lead to constipation.