Dr Kenneth Koo

Constipation Specialist In Singapore With 20 Years Experience

  • Looking for an accurate diagnosis & reliable treatment for constipation?
  • Fix your constipation symptoms before it leads to further complications.

Dr Kenneth Koo has extensive experience in treating gastric pain and other gastrointestinal symptoms & conditions in adults.

What Is Constipation?

Constipation occurs when there is an abnormal decrease in bowel movements (fewer than 3 times a week) and difficulty passing stools. Stools passed are also usually hard and dry.

Acute constipation is usually not a sign of a serious medical condition. However, persistent and chronic constipation may signal a more severe medical issue and result in more serious complications.

About our Gastroenterologist

Dr Kenneth Koo

Senior Consultant Gastroenterologist

Gleneagles Medical Centre

  • MBBS
  • M Med (Int Med)
  • MRCP (UK)
  • FRCP (Edin)

Dr Kenneth Koo is an experienced gastroenterologist with more than 20 years’ experience and is well trained in managing all types of digestive and liver conditions.

Prior to joining private practise, Dr Kenneth Koo was Director of Gastroenterology and Senior consultant at Ng Teng Fong General Hospital. An integral member of the team which transitioned from Alexander Hospital to Ng Teng Fong General Hospital in 2015, he was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the gastroenterology division including the growth, development and governance.

Dedication to his patients and clinical practise can be seen from several service quality awards obtained over the years.

When Should You Visit A Specialist For Constipation?

Constipation may signal an underlying medical condition. If left untreated, it could result in further complications such as haemorrhoids or anal fissures.

Seek immediate medical attention or consult a specialist if you experience any of these symptoms:

  • Blood in stools
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Persistent abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
  • Weight loss

Make an Enquiry

If you are experiencing abnormal and persistent constipation, you should see a specialist.

What Causes Constipation?

Constipation can occur when there is inadequate fluid intake or lack of fibre in the diet. This results in hard and dry stools, making it difficult to pass them out. Sometimes the colon itself contracts more slowly resulting in the slower passage of stools through the colon.

Causes of constipation include :

  • Low fibre diet
  • Dehydration (inadequate water intake)
  • Blockages in the colon or rectum (Intestinal obstruction)
  • Physical inactivity
  • Side effects of specific medications
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Nervous system disorders such as Parkinson’s
  • Colorectal cancer

Why Do Patients Choose
The GI & Liver Center

  • Previous Director of Gastroenterology & Senior consultant at Ng Teng Fong General Hospital
  • More Than 20 Years’ Experience
  • Accurate Diagnosis Through Comprehensive Screening Tools
  • Accepting Patients With & Without Insurance
  • Transparent & Honest Charges

Schedule An Appointment With Our Clinic

Constipation may signal an underlying medical condition. Schedule an appointment with a specialist today!

How Is Constipation Evaluated?

  • Review of medical history and lifestyle habits
  • Physical examination (rectal exam)
  • Imaging tests such as x-rays and CT scans may be used to detect any intestinal blockage
  • Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy to examine the inside of the colon and rectum
  • Specialised tests such as anorectal manometry and video defecogram
  • Blood and stool sample tests

Treatment Options For Constipation

Over-the-counter medications and laxatives

  • Fibre supplements
  • Stool softeners such as lactulose
  • Osmotic agents such as milk of magnesia
  • Lubricants such as mineral oils
  • Stimulants such as senna, bisacodyl

LIfestyle changes

  • Drink plenty of water
  • Consume more fibre-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains
  • Exercise regularly
  • Leaning forward, raising your feet, or squatting can make bowel movements smoother and easier

Surgery

Surgical options are rare and only considered if non-surgical treatment methods are ineffective and the constipation is caused by an intestinal blockage or structural problems of the intestines.

Billing & Insurance

Partnered Programs & Insurance Plans

We accept a range of policies that covers individual health insurance as well as corporate insurance plans. We have partnered with many insurance companies such as Aviva, IHP, Great Eastern, and more!

Our Clinic

Feel free to drop by at our clinic at 6 Napier Road #06-16, Gleneagles Medical Center, Singapore 258499

Enquire With Us

We are here to help. Fill in the form below to send us your enquiry or schedule an appointment.
Please Note: Adult patients ONLY.

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    Visit Our Clinic

    The GI & Liver Center

    6 Napier Road #06-16
    Gleneagles Medical Center
    Singapore 258499

    enquiries@tglc.sg

    Mon-Fri: 9am – 12.30pm and 2pm - 5pm
    Sat: 8.30am – 12.30pm
    Sun & PH: Closed

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Although constipation is common and often not a major cause for concern, it can still signal an underlying medical condition and result in further complications if left untreated. Constipation should be evaluated if it is persistent, is a recent change especially in those older then 40 years or is associated with other symptoms such as bleeding, weight loss.

    It is best to consult a specialist if you are uncertain about your symptoms.

    • Avoid ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
    • Drink plenty of water
    • Use laxatives sparingly
    • Eat a well-balanced diet that is rich in fibre