Constipation doesn’t typically cause seizures directly, but many people with epilepsy have constipation. Rarely, constipation may trigger seizures in people with epilepsy.

Constipation is a common digestive issue when bowel movements are infrequent or difficult to pass. Most people experience it at some point, and occasional constipation isn’t usually a cause for serious concern. However, chronic (long-term) constipation or severe constipation (bowel obstruction) can sometimes lead to severe complications or can include seizures.

Read on to learn about the potential connections between constipation and seizures.

Studies are inadequate to understand the link between constipation and seizures. However, some researchers are trying to understand if constipation can cause seizures or epilepsy.

A 2023 review of nine studies indicated how often people with epilepsy also have constipation. The review suggests that people with epilepsy are 5 times more likely to have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) than people without epilepsy. IBS usually results in chronic constipation (IBS-C).

In addition, 36% of people with epilepsy have functional constipation (constipation without a known cause). It’s also the second-most common condition in children with epilepsy.

Research suggests that some people have constipation before seizure episodes. It’s possible that a lack of appetite, which may lead to constipation, may sometimes be an early stage of a seizure.

How does this happen? The connection between the gut and the brain is complex. Researchers often refer to it as the “gut-brain axis.” This means that the digestive system and the brain can affect each other in ways we don’t fully understand yet.

Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which occur with bowel obstruction, may increase the risk of seizures. Low levels of potassium, magnesium, sodium, and other electrolytes may interfere with the electrical activity in your brain and increase the likelihood of a seizure.

Constipation-related seizures aren’t common, but they can sometimes cause the following types of seizures:

In addition to constipation, other digestive problems that may sometimes involve seizures include:

Let’s explore other potential links between constipation and seizures.

Can constipation treatments cause seizures?

Some treatments for constipation, such as laxatives, contribute to the chance of seizures if you don’t use them correctly. High dose laxatives can cause significant shifts in your body’s electrolyte balance, which can increase the chance of seizures. If you have epilepsy, be sure to speak with your doctor before you start taking any medication, even over-the-counter medications.

Can seizures cause constipation?

Many types of seizures can cause pre-seizure symptoms, which may include:

Abdominal symptoms that occur in abdominal epilepsy are extremely rare.

Additionally, many antiseizure medications have side effects, such as stomach upset and dizziness. These side effects affect appetite. When you don’t eat or drink enough, you can experience constipation.

If you or someone you care for experiences chronic constipation along with unexplained neurological symptoms like confusion, disorientation, or seizures, contact a doctor. While mild to moderate constipation on its own isn’t usually a medical emergency, when combined with these symptoms, it could be a sign of a more serious condition.

If you have epilepsy and your constipation seems to be worsening or you notice a pattern between constipation and increased seizure activity, be sure to speak with your healthcare professional.

Let’s discuss a few questions you may have about constipation and seizures.

Can constipation cause seizures in adults?

Constipation isn’t likely to cause seizures in adults. In rare situations, constipation can trigger seizures in some people with epilepsy.

Can constipation cause seizures in babies?

According to an older 2006 study, stool withholding (when your baby or toddler holds in poop) can cause nonepileptic seizures. But it’s extremely rare.

Can laxatives cause seizures?

Excessive use of laxatives can lead to dehydration and dangerous electrolyte imbalances. These imbalances may trigger seizures. It’s important to use laxatives as directed and to stay properly hydrated when using them.

Maintaining good digestive health, staying hydrated, and using constipation treatments as directed will help reduce your risk of constipation complications. If you have a seizure disorder and notice a pattern between constipation and seizures, be sure to discuss this with a doctor promptly.