Constipation: Fast Facts

Reviewed By:
David Friedel, M.D., AGA

• When bowel movements are infrequent and associated with symptoms, this is called constipation.
  
  
• Food product waste, or stool, may become hard and dry while in the intestines, making it painful to pass and causing strain.
  
  
• Constipation may be intense and develop suddenly or develop gradually and last for long periods of time.
  
  
• Most people have experienced constipation that corrects itself with time, changes in diet or increased physical activity.
  
  
• In most cases constipation is temporary and not serious.
  
  
• Long-lasting or severe constipation may indicate a more serious underlying disorder.
  
  
• You are not necessarily constipated just because you do not have a bowel movement each day.
  
  
• The frequency of bowel movements can vary greatly from person to person, from three times a week to three or more times a day.
  
  
• People should pay attention to any changes to what is normal for them.
  
  
• Other symptoms may appear with constipation, including abdominal pain, cramping and nausea.
  
  
• Several conditions may develop as a result of constipation, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, fecal impaction, rectal prolapse and diverticular disease.
  
  
• Some complications of constipation can also cause or contribute to constipation.
  
  
• Constipation may be caused by a number of medical conditions, lifestyle choices or medicines.
  
  
• Poor diet and a lack of exercise are the most common causes of occasional constipation.
  
  
• Irritable bowel syndrome, which includes alternating episodes of constipation and diarrhea, is one of the most common causes of chronic constipation in the United States.
  
  
• Treating constipation will include diagnosis and treatment of any underlying medical condition that is causing the problem.
  
  
• In cases of fecal impaction, a tap-water enema or manual removal may be necessary.
  
  
• Regardless of the cause, changes in diet and exercise are often recommended for people with constipation.
  
  
• Laxatives may be used in some cases.
  
  
• People are advised to consult with their doctor before taking laxatives because these medications carry risks.