Error: This is required. Error: Not a valid value. Constipation is difficulty passing stools pooing or infrequent bowel movements. It's common in both adults and children. Constipation can usually be treated by making simple lifestyle changes. However, in some cases there may be an underlying problem. So, see your doctor if your constipation is bad or not getting better. How often you have a bowel movement poo varies between people. For adults, the normal range is from 3 bowel movements per day to 3 bowel movements per week.
Constipation happens when your poo is hard and dry, making it difficult to pass. It's usually caused by:. Tests can help detect underlying conditions that may be causing your constipation. Your doctor may recommend tests, particularly if your constipation is severe or you have other symptoms. See your doctor if you have severe constipation or constipation that is not getting better with simple lifestyle changes. Occasionally, constipation can be a sign of an underlying condition such as bowel cancer.
With constipation that has been present for more than 3 months, changes in your diet and lifestyle will usually help. There are several things you can do at home to prevent constipation and treat it if it does occur.
These are explained below. If these measures don't work, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice. They might need to check the medicines you take or recommend a laxative to get your bowel moving. Laxatives can be used to treat constipation. There are several different types. Your doctor or pharmacist will talk with you about which laxative may be best for your episode of constipation. If you don't notice an improvement in your constipation, talk to your doctor about other possible treatments.
Sometimes, misusing stimulant laxatives can make it difficult to have a normal bowel pattern when you stop the laxatives. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist about how to take laxatives properly. There is a prescription medicine available to treat chronic ongoing constipation that has not responded to laxatives.
