22/07/2026
Constipation: what you need to know
Constipation is when stool becomes difficult to pass. It may involve fewer than 3 bowel movements per week, hard or dry stools, painful passing of stool, or feeling that you have not completely emptied your bowel. However, everyone has a different normal bowel pattern.
Common symptoms
*Passing stool less often than usual.
*Hard, dry or lumpy stool.
*Straining or pain when passing stool.
*Feeling that stool is still left inside
Abdominal pain or cramps.
*Bloating and discomfort
Common causes
Constipation can be caused by not eating enough fibre, not drinking enough fluids, lack of physical activity, ignoring the urge to pass stool, changes in routine, or certain medicines. Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism and irritable bowel syndrome, can also contribute.
How to prevent or relieve it
Eat more fibre gradually โ fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains and other high-fibre foods.
Drink enough fluids, especially when increasing fibre.
Stay physically active.
Do not ignore the urge to use the toilet.
Try having a regular toilet routine, such as after breakfast.
Give yourself enough time and avoid excessive straining.
For adults, a general target is around 22โ34 grams of fibre per day, depending on age and s*x. Increase fibre gradually to reduce gas and bloating.
When constipation may be an emergency ๐จ
Seek urgent medical care if constipation is accompanied by severe or constant abdominal pain, vomiting, inability to pass gas, fever, blood in the stool or re**al bleeding. Unexplained weight loss also needs medical assessment.
0964105041