What is good for constipation?

Constipation may mean stools are hard or difficult to pass, bowel movements are less frequent than usual, or you feel that the bowel has not emptied. Common contributors include low fibre intake, insufficient fluids, reduced activity, travel and some medicines. It can also occur with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Hypothyroidism or Diverticular Disease, so a persistent pattern deserves context rather than guesswork.

Increase fibre slowly through vegetables, fruit, beans, oats or whole grains, and drink fluids regularly. Walk or move each day if you can. Visit the toilet when the urge appears, allow time, and place your feet on a low support so your knees are slightly higher than your hips. Do not repeatedly use stimulant laxatives without guidance. Nutrition Counselling can help build a plan that suits your symptoms and medicines.

Book an appointment if constipation persists, keeps returning, starts suddenly without explanation, or follows a medicine change. Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, blood in the stool, faintness or inability to pass stool and gas. Marked thirst, dizziness or very little urine may signal Dehydration and also needs prompt attention.

Could a medicine, Hypothyroidism or Irritable Bowel Syndrome be contributing? How much fibre and fluid suit me? Should I use a stool softener or another treatment? What changes would make you want to examine me sooner?