Constipation: Causes, Home Remedies and When to See a Doctor
Constipation means passing fewer than three stools a week, or stools that are hard, dry and difficult to pass. It is very common and is usually caused by low fibre, too little fluid, lack of movement or ignoring the urge to go, and it often improves with simple daily habits.
What Causes Constipation?
Simple Ways to Get Things Moving
- Add fibre slowly: oats, lentils, beans, fruit, vegetables and whole grains
- Drink fluids through the day
- Walk or exercise most days
- Sit on the toilet at the same time daily, often after a meal
- Raise your feet on a small stool to help positioning
- Straining for long periods
- Suddenly eating a lot of fibre with little water, which can cause gas and bloating
- Relying on stimulant laxatives every day
- Ignoring the urge to go
Everyday habits matter; read natural ways to improve overall health.
What About Laxatives?
Several types exist, including bulk-forming fibre supplements, osmotic laxatives that draw water into the bowel, and stimulant laxatives. They are meant for short-term use unless a doctor advises otherwise. Ask your pharmacist which type suits you, especially if you are pregnant, elderly, have a long-term condition or take other medicines, and follow the label exactly. Learn more in how to take medicines correctly.
- You see blood in the stool or it is black
- You have severe belly pain, vomiting or a swollen abdomen
- You have unexplained weight loss or a recent change in bowel habit after age 50
- Constipation lasts more than three weeks or keeps returning
Looking for digestive care?
Browse our gastrointestinal category. Please ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any medicine.
Gastrointestinal careFrequently Asked Questions
Is it normal not to go every day?
Yes. Normal ranges from three times a day to three times a week. What matters is a change from your usual pattern or difficulty passing stool.
Can stress cause constipation?
Yes. Stress and routine changes can slow the gut or change habits in some people.
Do probiotics help?
They may help some people, but evidence is mixed. Fibre, fluids and activity are the first steps.
More Reading
Sources: NHS guidance on constipation; National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), “Symptoms and Causes of Constipation”; Mayo Clinic patient information.