Constipation – Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Overview of Constipation

Constipation is defined as infrequent, hard, or painful bowel movements that cause discomfort and interfere with daily life. While occasional constipation is common, chronic constipation—lasting for weeks or months—can significantly affect your health and wellbeing.

How common is constipation?

Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints worldwide. Studies suggest it affects about 14–20% of adults, with higher rates in women, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions. Prevalence also increases with age, partly due to changes in activity, diet, and medication use.

How does constipation impact daily life?

Constipation can affect much more than your digestive system. Its impact includes:

• Work and productivity: Persistent abdominal pain or bloating may limit focus and performance.
• Sport and activity: Discomfort or fatigue may reduce motivation for physical activity, creating a cycle that worsens constipation.
• Sleep: Nighttime discomfort, abdominal cramping, or the urge to pass stool can disturb sleep quality.
• Relationships and mental health: Constipation often causes embarrassment, frustration, and anxiety about food choices or bathroom access.

Living with chronic constipation can also contribute to a reduced quality of life and, in some cases, lead to complications such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or rectal prolapse.

How is constipation different from similar digestive conditions?

Constipation differs from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), though the two may overlap. IBS with constipation involves abdominal pain linked to bowel changes, whereas simple constipation may not always cause pain. Unlike diarrhea, constipation is characterized by too little movement through the intestines rather than too much. 👉 Related hubs: Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Hemorrhoids, Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Reference: Peppas G, Alexiou VG, Mourtzoukou E, Falagas ME. (2008). Epidemiology of constipation in Europe and Oceania: a systematic review. BMC Gastroenterology, 8:5. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-230X-8-5

Symptoms of Constipation

The main symptoms of constipation are fewer than three bowel movements per week, straining, and hard stools. But the condition affects more than just your digestion. What are the main symptoms of constipation?

Common signs include:

• Fewer than three bowel movements per week.
• Hard, lumpy, or dry stools.
• Straining or pain during bowel movements.
• A feeling of incomplete emptying.
• The need for manual assistance (using fingers or pressure) to pass stool.
• How severe can constipation get?

The severity of constipation ranges widely:

• Mild cases may involve short-term discomfort or bloating.
• Moderate cases can cause persistent abdominal pain, reduced appetite, and significant distress.
• Severe cases may result in complications like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or fecal impaction (a hardened stool that blocks the rectum).

Functional impact of constipation on your life

• Work and productivity: Constant discomfort can lower concentration and performance.
• Sport and physical activity: Pain or fatigue may prevent regular exercise, which worsens constipation.
• Sleep: Cramping or bloating often interferes with restful sleep.
• Relationships and mood: Chronic constipation is linked to anxiety, irritability, and reduced confidence in social settings.

Red flag symptoms

While constipation is usually harmless, you should seek medical attention if you notice:

• Blood in your stool.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Severe abdominal pain.
• Sudden, unexplained changes in bowel habits.

Reference: Mayo Clinic Staff. (2023). Constipation – Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation/symptoms-causes/syc-20354253

Causes and Risk Factors for Constipation

Constipation can be caused by diet, lifestyle, medical conditions, or medications. Often, more than one factor contributes. What are the most common causes of constipation?

• Dietary factors: Low fiber intake, inadequate hydration, or diets high in processed foods.
• Physical inactivity: Sedentary lifestyles slow down bowel movement.
• Medications: Opioid pain relievers, antidepressants, iron supplements, and certain antacids.
• Ignoring the urge: Delaying bowel movements repeatedly can lead to harder, drier stools.

Lifestyle and risk factors for constipation

• Age: Constipation is more common in older adults due to slower metabolism, reduced activity, and more frequent medication use.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus often slow digestion.
• Obesity: Extra weight, especially abdominal fat, can put pressure on the intestines.
• Occupation: Jobs requiring long hours of sitting increase risk.
• Posture: Poor posture during bathroom use can make bowel movements more difficult.

Medical causes of constipation

• Digestive disorders: IBS with constipation, diverticulosis, or colorectal cancer.
• Neurological conditions: Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries can affect nerve signals to the intestines.
• Metabolic and hormonal issues: Diabetes, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), or high calcium levels.

How is constipation different from temporary digestive slowdowns?

Unlike short-term constipation caused by travel, stress, or dietary changes, chronic constipation is persistent, lasting for several weeks or more and often requiring medical evaluation. Reference: Bharucha AE, Pemberton JH, Locke GR. (2013). American Gastroenterological Association technical review on constipation. Gastroenterology, 144(1), 218–238. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2012.10.028

Clinical Path for Constipation – Diagnosis, Recovery, and Management

Diagnosis of Constipation

Constipation is diagnosed through your medical history, physical examination, and sometimes specialized tests to identify the underlying cause. Because constipation can be triggered by multiple factors—from diet to medications to medical conditions—your healthcare provider will look at the full picture.

How do doctors test for constipation?

The first step is usually a medical history and symptom review. You’ll be asked about your bowel habits, diet, fluid intake, activity level, and medications. A physical examination, especially of the abdomen and sometimes a digital rectal exam, helps check for stool buildup or other abnormalities. If constipation persists or is severe, further testing may include:

• Blood tests: To check for thyroid, calcium, or blood sugar abnormalities.
• Imaging studies: An abdominal X-ray or CT scan may reveal blockages or stool buildup.
• Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy: Used if there are red flag symptoms like blood in stool or sudden unexplained changes.
• Transit studies (Sitz marker test): Track how long food takes to move through your colon.
• Anorectal manometry: Measures muscle and nerve function in the rectum and anus.

How is constipation different from similar conditions?

Unlike irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation without IBS doesn’t always include abdominal pain or alternating diarrhea. Functional constipation is also different from fecal impaction, which is a severe blockage requiring urgent treatment.

Identifying the root cause

Doctors typically classify constipation into:

• Normal-transit constipation (slow passage but normal frequency).
• Slow-transit constipation (colon muscles move stool too slowly).
• Outlet obstruction (trouble with rectal muscles or pelvic floor).

Reference: Bharucha AE, Pemberton JH, Locke GR. (2013). American Gastroenterological Association technical review on constipation. Gastroenterology, 144(1):218–238. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2012.10.028

Recovery & Prognosis for Constipation

Most cases of constipation improve with lifestyle changes and basic treatments, but recovery depends on whether the condition is mild, moderate, or severe.

How long does constipation usually take to improve?

• Mild constipation (short-term, related to travel, diet, or stress) often resolves within days to a week once hydration, fiber intake, and activity increase.
• Moderate constipation (lasting weeks or recurring) may take several weeks to months of consistent treatment, including dietary changes and possibly medications.
• Severe or chronic constipation can persist for months or years and may require medical tests, prescription therapies, or pelvic floor retraining.

Recurrence and long-term outcomes

Constipation often comes back if the underlying cause isn’t managed. For example, medication-induced constipation may return unless the prescription is changed. People with neurological or metabolic conditions may require ongoing care.

Lifestyle and functional outcomes

• Return to work: Most people can continue working, but severe constipation may limit productivity.
• Return to sport: Physical activity often helps improve symptoms, so maintaining exercise is beneficial.
• Long-term lifestyle: A structured routine of hydration, diet, and physical activity is usually required to prevent relapse.

Decision pathway for recovery

• If mild constipation → Increase hydration, fiber, and activity.
• If constipation persists more than 2–3 weeks → Consult a doctor for evaluation and possible over-the-counter laxatives.
• If severe constipation with red flags (blood in stool, weight loss, severe pain) → Seek urgent medical care for tests and targeted treatment.

Reference: Rao SSC, Camilleri M. (2010). Review article: management of chronic constipation. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 31(1): 1–18. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2036.2009.04149.x

How to Manage Constipation

Management of constipation combines diet, activity, posture, and medical treatments when necessary. The best approach is gradual, consistent change rather than relying on quick fixes.

What’s the best way to manage constipation at home?

Lifestyle management is the cornerstone:

• Fiber intake: Aim for 25–35g daily from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Hydration: Drink enough fluids—usually 6–8 cups of water daily.
• Physical activity: Regular exercise improves bowel motility.
• Bathroom habits: Respond to the urge to go, and use proper posture (feet elevated on a small stool).

Self-help & relief tips (step-by-step)

1. Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning.
2. Eat a high-fiber breakfast (oats, berries, flaxseed).
3. Schedule bathroom time after meals when your colon is most active.
4. Use proper posture: Feet elevated, leaning forward slightly.
5. Move daily: Walking, yoga, or light stretching helps stimulate bowel movements.

Other management strategies

• Over-the-counter laxatives (bulk-forming like psyllium, stool softeners, or osmotic agents) can help short-term.
• Prescription medications may be needed in chronic cases.
• Biofeedback therapy can retrain pelvic floor muscles if outlet obstruction is the cause.
• Psychological support helps manage anxiety or stress-related constipation.

Prevention strategies

• Maintain a consistent meal schedule.
• Prioritize sleep and stress reduction, since both affect digestion.
• Avoid overuse of stimulant laxatives, which can worsen constipation long-term.

Reference: Ford AC, Moayyedi P, Lacy BE, et al. (2014). American College of Gastroenterology monograph on the management of irritable bowel syndrome and chronic idiopathic constipation. Am J Gastroenterol, 109(S1): S2–S26. https://doi.org/10.1038/ajg.2014.187

Multidisciplinary Care for Constipation at CARESPACE

CARESPACE takes a unique multidisciplinary approach to managing constipation by combining physical, nutritional, and psychological care. Instead of treating constipation as a single problem, CARESPACE coordinates multiple experts to address its root causes, improve recovery, and prevent recurrence.

How does CARESPACE treat constipation differently?

Unlike traditional approaches that focus on just medication or diet, CARESPACE integrates care from several disciplines at once. This means you benefit from a team that looks at your body, nutrition, stress levels, and daily routines together—not in isolation. For example:

• A physiotherapist may assess your posture and pelvic floor function.
• A nutritionist can adjust your diet to include the right fiber, fluids, and nutrients.
• A psychotherapist may help you manage stress or anxiety that worsens bowel symptoms.
• A massage therapist could work on abdominal or pelvic tension that affects bowel movement.

By combining these perspectives, your care plan is more personalized, evidence-based, and focused on long-term results.

Why does a team approach help constipation recover faster?

Constipation is rarely caused by just one factor. It may involve slow gut movement, weak abdominal muscles, low fiber intake, stress, or even poor posture. A single-discipline approach might only cover one part of the issue, but a team approach helps in multiple ways:

• Acute phase (early discomfort): Relief strategies may include hydration, massage therapy, and gentle movement guided by a physiotherapist.
• Subacute phase (ongoing symptoms): Nutrition, exercise, and behavioral coaching are layered on to address daily habits.
• Maintenance phase (long-term prevention): Regular check-ins with your care team help you sustain results, prevent relapse, and build resilience.

This coordinated care model ensures you get faster relief in the short term and lower recurrence risk in the long term.

Which CARESPACE services support constipation management?

CARESPACE integrates physical, mental, and lifestyle support to provide whole-person care.

• Physiotherapy & Kinesiology: Focus on posture, abdominal strength, and pelvic floor training to improve bowel mechanics.
• Massage Therapy: Helps reduce tension in abdominal and pelvic muscles that may restrict bowel movement.
• Nutrition & Naturopathic Medicine: Personalized diet planning to balance fiber, hydration, and gut-friendly foods.
• Psychotherapy & Coaching: Addresses stress, anxiety, or unhealthy habits that may worsen constipation.
• Acupuncture: Can support digestive regulation and reduce abdominal discomfort.
• Fitness Training: Builds endurance, mobility, and regular activity patterns that improve gut motility.

How does CARESPACE coordinate physical and mental health care for constipation?

CARESPACE recognizes that constipation isn’t just physical—it’s also tied to your mental and emotional health. Many people with chronic constipation experience stress, sleep problems, or worry about their symptoms.

To support both sides of health, CARESPACE coordinates:

• Psychotherapy for stress, anxiety, or body image issues.
• Coaching for lifestyle routines (meal timing, exercise, hydration).
• Nutrition support to match your emotional and physical needs.
• Fitness or movement sessions to re-establish daily rhythm.

This integration means you don’t just “fix the symptoms”—you build healthier long-term habits that protect your gut and improve overall wellbeing.

What makes CARESPACE’s constipation care unique?

CARESPACE’s unique advantage is evidence-based, team-based care that’s personalized to your needs. Instead of cycling between different providers on your own, your care is coordinated under one plan. Key advantages include:

• Faster recovery: Because multiple therapies start at once.
• Lower recurrence risk: Prevention strategies are built into your plan.
• Personalized care: Tailored to your age, lifestyle, occupation, and mental health needs.
• Whole-person focus: Mental and physical health are treated together.

Related Conditions for Constipation

Constipation often overlaps with or mimics other digestive and lifestyle conditions. For many people, it is not an isolated problem but part of a wider set of gastrointestinal or functional issues. Common related conditions include:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS can cause alternating constipation and diarrhea, often with abdominal cramping and bloating.
• Hemorrhoids: Straining during constipation can lead to swollen veins in the rectum or anus, causing pain and bleeding.
• Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Problems with the muscles that control bowel movements can make constipation chronic or more severe.
• Slow Transit Constipation: A condition where the colon muscles move stool too slowly, leading to infrequent bowel movements.
• Secondary Constipation: This can be caused by conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or side effects of certain medications (like painkillers or antidepressants).
• If your constipation overlaps with these conditions, your care plan may need to address multiple factors at once.

Looking for information on a different condition? Visit our full Conditions List.