When a can constipation cause fever, they can feel bloated, have pain in their abdomen, and are usually tired or sick. If a fever develops along with the constipation, it is important to take immediate action. Fever and constipation do not cause each other but the symptoms are commonly linked and may signal a serious condition.
Infection and Constipation
Many bacterial infections that are common in the gastrointestinal tract can lead to constipation, diarrhea, and fever. These include gastroenteritis (stomach flu), bacterial infections such as Salmonella or E. coli, and inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
A fever may also occur alongside constipation if the person has a bowel obstruction or severe constipation. Often, this is because the stool becomes stuck and can’t pass easily through the colon. This can create a blockage in the intestine and lead to infection, bloating, pain, or diarrhea. In extreme cases, a blocked bowel can cause a life-threatening condition called sepsis.
Constipation can also cause fever if the person is dehydrated or has a lot of straining during bowel movements. The straining can irritate the vagus nerve, which runs close to the colon. This can sometimes lead to a low-grade fever, especially in young children. It’s important to drink 1.5-2 quarts of water each day to stay hydrated and limit caffeinated drinks, alcohol, and high-fat foods that cause dehydration. It is also a good idea to add fiber-rich foods to your diet, such as raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains, prunes, beans, bran cereal, and prune juice.