Constipation is a common symptom marked by infrequent, hard, or difficult bowel movements. This page outlines possible causes, typical signs to watch for, situations that warrant prompt medical review, and which specialties commonly evaluate the problem.
Constipation is typically defined by fewer than three bowel movements per week, straining, hard stools, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation. Frequent contributors include low dietary fiber, inadequate fluids, reduced physical activity, changes in toilet habits, certain medications, and some systemic or intestinal conditions. Age, pregnancy, metabolic disorders and neurological conditions can also affect bowel function.
Common accompanying complaints include bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort and difficulty passing stool. Seek urgent medical assessment if there is severe or sudden abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, high fever, fresh blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss or signs suggesting bowel obstruction. Persistent or progressively worsening constipation should also be evaluated by a clinician.
Initial assessment is usually performed by primary care (family medicine or internal medicine). If needed, gastroenterology provides further evaluation. Diagnosis relies on medical history and physical examination and may include rectal examination, blood tests, imaging studies or endoscopic procedures. Pediatrics, geriatrics or neurology may be involved when age-specific factors or neurological causes are suspected.
Lifestyle adjustments often recommended include increasing dietary fiber, ensuring adequate fluid intake, regular physical activity and not delaying the urge to defecate. These general measures may help short-term symptoms but do not replace a medical assessment when problems persist or are severe.
Different circumstances can change the approach: in pregnancy, in young children, and in older adults or when new medications are started. If constipation begins suddenly, follows abdominal surgery, or occurs with other new concerning symptoms, contact a healthcare professional for evaluation.
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