What should you know about over the counter for constipation?

Bulk-forming fibre increases stool volume and needs enough fluid. Osmotic laxatives draw water into the bowel and may take time to work. Stimulant laxatives encourage bowel movement and are generally intended for limited use. Stool softeners may be useful when straining should be avoided, but they are not suitable for every situation.

Constipation can involve hard stools, straining, fewer bowel movements, or a feeling of incomplete emptying. Dehydration, a change in routine, medicines, hypothyroidism, irritable bowel syndrome, and diverticular disease can all be relevant clues.

Follow the label, drink regularly unless a clinician has restricted your fluids, and increase fibre gradually through foods such as vegetables, fruit, beans, and whole grains. Gentle movement and responding to the urge to open your bowels can support a regular pattern. Do not combine several laxatives or use them repeatedly without advice.

A pharmacist can check whether a medicine is contributing and select an option suited to your age, pregnancy status, and other conditions. Nutrition counselling may help when food pattern and fluid intake are difficult to adjust.

Seek urgent assessment for severe or worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, inability to pass stool or gas, blood in the stool, or black stool. Arrange medical review when constipation is new and persistent, alternates with diarrhoea, or comes with unexplained weight loss, tiredness, or a change in bowel habit.

Ask what type of laxative is appropriate, how long to use it, whether your medicines or thyroid function could be involved, and which symptoms should trigger review.