What are the symptoms of constipation?
Symptoms of constipation may include:
- Infrequent bowel movements
- Hard, dry stools
- Pain or discomfort when passing stools
- Feeling bloated or having a full sensation in the abdomen
- Straining to have a bowel movement
What causes constipation?
There are several reasons why someone might experience constipation, including:
- Not eating enough fibre in the diet
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Lack of physical activity
- Ignoring the urge to go to the toilet
- Some medications can also cause constipation
How common is constipation?
Constipation is quite common and affects people of all ages. It is more likely to happen at certain times, such as during pregnancy or after surgery.
Who is more likely to get constipation?
Some factors can increase the risk of constipation, including:
- Being older
- Being female, especially during pregnancy
- Having a diet low in fibre
- Not being active
- Having certain health conditions
How can I treat constipation?
There are several ways to help treat constipation:
- Increasing fibre intake by eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Drinking plenty of water
- Regular physical activity
- Over-the-counter laxatives (such as lactulose) can be used, but it’s best to talk to a healthcare provider first
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How to prevent constipation?
To help prevent constipation, you can:
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fibre
- Stay hydrated by drinking enough fluids
- Exercise regularly
- Respond to the urge to go to the toilet
Final thoughts
Constipation is a common condition that can usually be managed with simple changes to diet and lifestyle. If you have concerns, it’s always best to speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
