What could constipation mean?

Constipation means passing stools less often than usual, or finding them hard or difficult to pass. Most cases improve with more fibre, plenty of fluids and regular activity. See a GP if your bowel habit suddenly changes, especially over the age of 50, or if there is blood in your stool.

How often should I have a bowel movement?

Anything from three times a day to three times a week can be normal. Bowel habits vary a great deal between individuals, so what matters most is a change from what is usual for you.

Which foods help relieve constipation?

Foods that are high in fibre, such as wholegrains and prunes, can help relieve constipation. Drinking plenty of fluids alongside a high-fibre diet is also important.

Can iron tablets cause constipation?

Yes, constipation is a common side effect of iron tablets. If it is troublesome, speak to your GP, who may suggest a stool softener.

When is constipation a sign of something serious?

Constipation is more concerning when it is a new change in bowel habit, or when it comes with blood in your stool or unexplained weight loss. In these situations a GP will want to rule out bowel cancer.

Constipation — symptoms and causes

Who should skip this page?

Skip this page if you need a diagnosis, a prescription, or emergency care. It cannot replace a GP, pharmacist, NHS 111 or 999. If you are in immediate danger, call 999; for urgent advice that is not life-threatening, call 111 in England, Scotland or Wales, or use your GP out-of-hours service in Northern Ireland.

What constipation means

Constipation is very common and is usually related to lifestyle factors such as diet and activity levels. A change in your usual bowel habit, however, always needs a review with a GP.

Causes of constipation

The most common causes of constipation are a low-fibre diet, inactivity and medicines such as opioid painkillers. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and hypothyroidism can also cause constipation.

Self-care for constipation

Eating more fibre, drinking plenty of fluids, staying active and keeping a regular toilet routine all help to prevent and relieve constipation. Try to respond to the urge to go rather than putting it off.

When constipation needs medical attention

See a GP if you notice blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or signs of bowel obstruction such as vomiting while unable to pass stool or wind — obstruction is an emergency. If you are eligible for NHS bowel screening, take part when invited.

Common questions about constipation

How often should I have a bowel movement?: Anything from three times a day to three times a week can be normal. Bowel habits vary a great deal between individuals, so what matters most is a change from what is usual for you.
Which foods help relieve constipation?: Foods that are high in fibre, such as wholegrains and prunes, can help relieve constipation. Drinking plenty of fluids alongside a high-fibre diet is also important.
Can iron tablets cause constipation?: Yes, constipation is a common side effect of iron tablets. If it is troublesome, speak to your GP, who may suggest a stool softener.
When is constipation a sign of something serious?: Constipation is more concerning when it is a new change in bowel habit, or when it comes with blood in your stool or unexplained weight loss. In these situations a GP will want to rule out bowel cancer.

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Constipation