🩺 Constipation Explained

🔍 What does constipation mean? 

Constipation means having bowel movements less often than usual or having hard, difficult-to-pass stools.

Doctors use this term because bowel habits vary from person to person. Constipation is a symptom, not a diagnosis, and it can be temporary or ongoing.

📌 Top 5 common reasons doctors use this term 

Doctors most often use constipation because of common causes such as:

1. Low fiber intake
   
   

2. Not drinking enough fluids
   
   

3. Medications, such as pain medicines or iron supplements
   
   

4. Low physical activity
   
   

5. Stress or changes in routine
   
   

Constipation is very common and often related to daily habits.

⚠️ Common symptoms people notice 

People with constipation may notice:

• Fewer bowel movements
  
  

• Hard or dry stools
  
  

• Straining during bowel movements
  
  

• Feeling of incomplete emptying
  
  

• Abdominal discomfort or bloating
  
  

Symptoms can build up gradually.

❓ Common questions people ask 

Why haven’t I pooped in days? 

Bowel movements can slow due to dehydration, low fiber intake, stress, or medication effects. 

Why does constipation make my stomach hurt? 

Stool buildup can cause pressure and gas, leading to abdominal discomfort or bloating. 

Why do I feel constipated even when I go? 

Incomplete emptying can happen when stool is hard or bowel muscles are not coordinating well. 

Why does constipation happen when I travel or change routines? 

Changes in diet, activity, schedule, and hydration can affect bowel habits. 

🧪 How doctors usually check constipation 

Doctors may evaluate constipation using:

• Symptom history and duration
  
  

• Diet, fluid, and medication review
  
  

• Physical exam
  
  

• Blood tests or imaging only if constipation is ongoing or severe
  
  

Most constipation does not require extensive testing.

👩‍⚕️ Do I need a regular doctor or a specialist? 

Constipation is often managed by a primary care doctor.

If a specialist is needed

• Gastroenterologist – for long-term or severe constipation
  
  

• Pelvic floor specialist – if muscle coordination issues are suspected
  
  

Referral depends on duration and response to treatment.

🔄 What usually happens next 

For many people, next steps may include:

• Increasing fiber and fluid intake
  
  

• Improving physical activity
  
  

• Adjusting medications if possible
  
  

• Short-term laxatives if recommended
  
  

• Follow-up if constipation continues
  
  

Many cases improve with simple changes.

ℹ️ Important note 

This page is for educational purposes only.

It does not diagnose any condition.

Always follow guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. 

🔗 Explore related medical terms 

Abdominal Pain

Dehydration

Bloating