When should you see a doctor about constipation?

Constipation may involve hard stools, straining, or passing stool less often than is normal for you. Common contributors include low fluid intake, limited fibre, reduced movement, travel, stress, and medicines. It can also occur with hypothyroidism or irritable bowel syndrome. Pain during passage may occur with an anal fissure or haemorrhoids. Constipation does not by itself identify a single condition.

Drink fluids regularly unless a clinician has told you to restrict them. Add fibre gradually through vegetables, fruit, pulses, and whole grains, and walk or move as you can. Allow unhurried toilet time and respond to the urge. Review medicines with a pharmacist or doctor rather than stopping prescribed treatment. Nutrition counselling can help if food choices, appetite, or another health issue makes changes difficult.

Seek urgent care for severe or persistent abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a markedly swollen abdomen, inability to pass gas, black stool, or more than a small amount of rectal blood. Book an appointment for a new pattern, ongoing symptoms, unexplained weight loss, anaemia, or constipation that interferes with daily life. Dehydration signs such as very dark urine, dizziness, or unusual drowsiness also need prompt advice.

Ask whether your medicines, diet, thyroid function, or bowel pattern could contribute; which laxative, if any, is suitable; and how long to try it. Mention pain, blood, stool changes, family history, and any recent illness. Ask when you should return if symptoms do not improve.