CONSTIPATION

WHAT IS CONSTIPATION?

Constipation is infrequent or uncomfortable bowel movements. Often the bowel movements are small, hard, or dry.

HOW DOES IT OCCUR?

You may have constipation because:

• You wait too long to have bowel movements.

• You do not drink enough fluids.

• You overuse some types of laxatives.

• You do not eat enough fiber.

• You don’t have enough physical activity.

• You are taking iron pills or a medicine that has a side effect of constipation, such as narcotic pain medication.

Other possible causes are:

• pregnancy

• depression or stress

• some medical conditions and diseases.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Symptoms may include having:

• small bowel movements

• hard, dry bowel movements

• uncomfortable or painful bowel movements that are hard to pass

• a longer time than usual between bowel movements.

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