Overview

Constipation means you have a hard time passing stools (bowel movements) and are passing fewer stools. People pass stools anywhere from 3 times a day to once every 3 days. What is normal for you may be different. Constipation may occur with pain in the rectum and cramping. The pain may get worse when you try to pass stools. Sometimes there are small amounts of bright red blood on toilet paper or the surface of stools due to enlarged veins near the rectum (hemorrhoids).

A few changes in your diet and lifestyle may help you avoid continuing constipation. Your doctor may also prescribe medicine to help loosen your stool.

Some medicines (such as pain medicines or antidepressants) can cause constipation. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take. Your doctor may want to make a medicine change to ease your symptoms.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Drink plenty of fluids. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
• Include high-fibre foods, such as fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains, in your diet each day.
• Get plenty of exercise every day. Go for a walk or jog, ride your bike, or play sports with friends.
• Take a fibre supplement, such as Benefibre or Metamucil, every day. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Schedule time each day for a bowel movement. A daily routine may help. Take your time having a bowel movement, but don't sit for more than 10 minutes at a time. And don't strain too much.
• Support your feet with a small step stool when you sit on the toilet. This helps flex your hips and places your pelvis in a squatting position.
• Your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter laxative to relieve your constipation. Examples are Milk of Magnesia and RestoraLax. Read and follow all instructions on the label, and do not use laxatives on a long-term basis.