Quick answer
What is constipation?
Constipation means passing stools less often than usual or finding them hard to pass. It is very common and usually not serious. It can often be improved by eating more fibre, drinking enough fluids and staying active, and pharmacy laxatives can help in the short term.
What is constipation?
Constipation is when you pass stools less often than normal for you, or when they are hard, lumpy or difficult to pass. It is one of the most common digestive complaints and is usually nothing to worry about, though it can be uncomfortable.
Symptoms
You might be constipated if you:
- have not had a poo at least three times in a week
- are straining or in pain when you go
- pass hard, dry or lumpy stools
- feel bloated or sick
- feel as though you have not fully emptied your bowels
What causes it
Constipation often comes down to everyday factors: not enough fibre, not enough fluid, being inactive, or ignoring the urge to go. Stress, changes in routine, pregnancy and certain medicines can also cause it. Sometimes there is an underlying condition.
Self-help and treatment
Most constipation improves with simple changes:
- eat more fibre — vegetables, fruit, wholegrains and pulses
- drink plenty of fluids
- be more physically active
- go to the toilet when you feel the urge, rather than holding on
If these are not enough, a pharmacist can recommend a short course of laxatives. These work well for occasional constipation but are best not relied on long term without advice.
When to see a GP
See a GP if constipation is persistent, keeps returning, or does not respond to self-help. Always get it checked sooner if there is blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or a lasting change in your usual bowel habits.
Common questions
- What causes constipation?
- Common causes include not eating enough fibre, not drinking enough fluids, being inactive, ignoring the urge to go, stress, and some medicines. Pregnancy and certain health conditions can also cause it.
- How can I relieve constipation quickly?
- Increasing fibre, drinking more water and moving more help over a few days. A pharmacist can recommend a short course of laxatives for quicker relief. Try not to rely on laxatives long term without advice.
- How much fibre should I eat?
- A varied diet with plenty of vegetables, fruit, wholegrains and pulses usually provides enough fibre. Increase fibre gradually and drink more fluids alongside it to avoid bloating.
- When is constipation a sign of something serious?
- Most constipation is harmless. See a GP if it is persistent, comes with blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, a lasting change in your normal bowel pattern, or ongoing pain.