Constipation

What is Constipation?

Constipation is a condition in which you typically have:

• fewer than three bowel movements a week
• bowel movements with stools that are hard, dry, and small, making them painful or difficult to pass

Some people think they are constipated if they don’t have a bowel movement every day. However, people can have different bowel movement patterns. Some people may have three bowel movements a day. Other people may only have three bowel movements a week.

Constipation most often lasts for only a short time and is not dangerous. You can take steps to prevent or relieve constipation.

Who is more likely to become constipated?

Constipation is common among all ages and populations in the United States, yet certain people are more likely to become constipated, including:

• women, especially during pregnancy or after giving birth
• older adults
• non-Caucasians
• people with lower incomes
• people who just had surgery
• people taking medicines to treat depression or to relieve
• pain from things such as a broken bone, a pulled tooth, or back pain​

What are the complications of constipation?

Chronic, or long-lasting, constipation can lead to health problems such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal prolapse, or fecal impaction.

How do doctors treat constipation?

Treatment for constipation depends on:

• what’s causing your constipation
• how bad your constipation is
• how long you’ve been constipated

Treatment for constipation may include the following:

• ​Changes in eating, diet, and nutrition (drinking liquids throughout the day, eating more fruits and vegetables​, and eating more fiber)
• Exercise and lifestyle changes (exercising every day)
• Over-the-counter medication
• Prescription medication