Constipation what it can mean

Overview

Constipation is when you have trouble pooing (having a bowel movement). You may poo less than three times a week, your poo may be hard and dry, or you may feel like you cannot empty your bowel fully. It is usually not serious and can be helped with simple changes to diet and lifestyle.

Yes, constipation is extremely common. At some point, nearly everyone experiences it. It is one of the most frequent reasons people visit their GP (family doctor).

Constipation can affect anyone, but it is more common in older adults, pregnant women, and people who eat a low‑fibre diet, don't drink enough fluids, or take certain medications.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Fewer than three bowel movements per week
• Hard, dry, or lumpy stools (poo)
• Straining or pain when pooing
• Feeling that you haven't fully emptied your bowels
• Bloating, stomach cramps, or discomfort

Symptoms in children

• Pooing fewer than three times a week
• Large, hard, or pellet‑like poo
• Pain when pooing, leading to holding it in
• Soiling (liquid poo leaking out) because of a backed‑up bowel
• Tummy aches or irritability

Symptoms in older adults

• Same as common symptoms, but may be less noticeable
• More likely to have a serious underlying cause, such as a bowel blockage
• May become confused or agitated if constipation is severe
• Could lead to a blocked bowel (faecal impaction) needing urgent treatment

Causes

Main causes

• Eating a diet low in fibre (too little fruit, vegetables, whole grains)
• Not drinking enough fluids (water or other unsweetened drinks)
• Lack of physical activity
• Ignoring the urge to poo (holding it in)
• Side effects of certain medications (e.g., painkillers, antidepressants, iron supplements)

Risk factors

• Older age
• Pregnancy
• A sedentary lifestyle
• Low‑fibre diet
• Taking medications that cause constipation
• Medical conditions such as diabetes, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have severe stomach pain or vomiting
• You cannot pass gas or poo for more than a day
• You see blood in your poo
• You have a fever along with constipation

Book a routine appointment if:

• Constipation lasts longer than 3 weeks despite self‑care
• You have to strain very hard or always feel blocked up
• You have a family history of bowel cancer
• You are over 50 and your bowel habits suddenly change

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, how long you have had them, your diet, activity level, and any medicines you take. They may also do a physical examination, which often includes pressing on your belly and, in some cases, a rectal exam to check for blockages or other problems.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check for conditions like underactive thyroid or low iron
• Stool (poo) tests to look for infection or inflammation
• Abdominal X‑ray or ultrasound if a blockage is suspected
• Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy (a thin tube with a camera) if you have serious symptoms or risk factors

What to expect at your appointment

Most people do not need any tests. Your doctor will give you advice on diet, fluids, and exercise. If tests are needed, they are usually straightforward and done in a clinic or hospital. The doctor will explain everything before proceeding.

Treatment

Treatment for constipation usually starts with simple changes you can make yourself. If those don't help, your doctor may suggest medications or procedures. The goal is to make pooing comfortable and regular.

Self-care at home

• Eat more high‑fibre foods such as fruit, vegetables, wholemeal bread, oats, beans, and lentils
• Drink plenty of water (6‑8 glasses a day, unless your doctor says otherwise)
• Do regular physical activity – even a 20‑minute walk each day helps
• Go to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge – don't hold it in
• Allow yourself enough time and privacy to poo without rushing

Medical treatments

If self‑care is not enough, your doctor may recommend a type of laxative (medicine to help you poo). These work in different ways: some soften the poo, some draw water into the bowel, and some stimulate the bowel to move. Your doctor will advise which type is best for you and for how long to use it. Never take laxatives for more than a few days without medical advice. In some cases, suppositories or enemas (medicines inserted into the back passage) may be used.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for constipation. It may be considered only if there is a severe underlying problem, such as a blockage or a structural issue in the bowel that does not improve with other treatments. Your doctor will discuss this if it becomes necessary.

Living with this condition

Living with constipation can be uncomfortable, but most people manage well with simple habits. Keeping a routine – eating at regular times, staying hydrated, and moving daily – can help prevent problems.

Lifestyle tips

• Set aside a regular time each day to use the toilet, such as after breakfast
• Practice relaxation techniques – stress can make constipation worse
• Keep a food diary to see which foods help or worsen your symptoms
• Avoid over‑using laxatives – they can make your bowel lazy

Diet and exercise

Eat plenty of fibre from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. This helps move food through your digestive system.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Constipation can cause anxiety, embarrassment, or frustration. It may affect your social life or mood. It is important to talk to your doctor if you feel distressed – they can offer support and practical advice.

Prevention

Yes, in many cases constipation can be prevented or reduced by eating a balanced diet high in fibre, drinking enough fluids, staying active, and responding quickly to the urge to poo.

Screening programmes

Routine screening for bowel cancer is offered in many countries for people over a certain age (usually 50–60). This can detect problems early, even before symptoms start. Ask your doctor about screening in your area.

Complications

If left untreated

• Haemorrhoids (swollen veins in the back passage) from straining
• Anal fissures (small tears in the skin around the anus)
• Faecal impaction (a hard, large lump of poo that gets stuck) requiring hospital treatment
• Rectal prolapse (the rectum pokes out of the anus) in severe cases

Long-term outlook

With simple changes and appropriate treatment, most people recover from constipation quickly. Even if the condition is long‑term, effective management is possible. Constipation is rarely dangerous, and serious complications can be avoided by seeking help early.

Find support

Local organisations

• NHS website · UK

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.