Constipation relief for adults

A slower bowel pattern may follow a sedentary routine, a low-fibre diet, travel, stress, or ignoring the urge to go. Opioid pain medicines, iron, and some other treatments can also harden stool. Constipation can occur alongside irritable bowel syndrome, while an underactive thyroid can slow several body processes. These possibilities do not mean a symptom identifies one condition; a clinician uses your history, examination, and medicine list to judge what to do next.

Keep drinks regular and add fibre in stages from pulses, vegetables, fruit, oats, nuts, seeds, or wholegrain foods. Pairing fibre with fluids can make it easier for stool to pass. Walk, stretch, or choose another activity that fits your health. Use the toilet when the urge arrives, allow privacy, and consider a footrest rather than straining. If self-care does not help, a pharmacist or clinician can recommend a suitable treatment and check interactions. Do not stop prescribed medicine without discussing it. Nutrition Counselling can support a sustainable eating plan.

Seek urgent care for intense or worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, ongoing vomiting, inability to pass gas, black stool, blood in the stool, fever, faintness, or severe weakness. Arrange a routine appointment for a new persistent change, repeated constipation, unexplained weight loss, or symptoms that began after a medicine change. Dehydration can worsen hard stool; dizziness, very dark urine, or very little urine warrants prompt advice.

Which medicine or supplement might be affecting my bowel? How quickly should I increase fibre? What treatment is suitable with my other conditions? Which change in bowel habit needs testing rather than home care?