Sedentary lifestyle
Overuse of laxatives
Opioid or antidepressant medications
Neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s, MS)
Colorectal obstruction (tumors, strictures)
⚠️ Toxic Megacolon Causes:
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – especially ulcerative colitis
Infections – particularly Clostridium difficile (C. diff)
Ischemic colitis (restricted blood flow)
Colonic pseudo-obstruction
Chagas disease (in some parts of Latin America)
Symptoms to Watch For
🟡 Severe Constipation:
No bowel movement for several days
Abdominal pain or bloating
Hard, dry stools
Nausea or loss of appetite
Straining or incomplete evacuation
🔴 Toxic Megacolon (Medical Emergency):
Sudden, severe abdominal pain
Swollen, tender belly
Fever and chills
Rapid heart rate
Dehydration
Confusion or weakness
