https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/constipation/symptoms-causes
What are the symptoms of constipation?
Symptoms of constipation may include
- fewer than three bowel movements a week
- stools that are hard, dry, or lumpy
- stools that are difficult or painful to pass
- a feeling that not all stool has passed
When should I see a doctor?
You should see a doctor if your symptoms do not go away with self-care or you have a family history of colon or rectal cancer NIH external link.
You should see a doctor right away if you have constipation and any of the following symptoms
- bleeding from your rectum
- blood in your stool
- constant pain in your abdomen
- inability to pass gas
- vomiting
- fever
- lower back pain
- losing weight without trying
You should see a doctor right away if you have constipation and constant pain in your abdomen.
What causes constipation?
You may be constipated for many reasons, and constipation may have more than one cause at a time. Causes of constipation may include
Certain medicines and dietary supplements
Medicines and dietary supplements NIH external link that can make constipation worse include
Life changes or daily routine changes
Constipation can happen when your life or daily routine changes. For example, your bowel movements can change
- if you become pregnant
- as you get older
- when you travel
- when you ignore the urge to have a bowel movement
- if you change your medicines
- if you change how much and what you eat
Certain health and nutrition problems
Certain health and nutrition problems can cause constipation
