Symptom

Constipation

Constipation occurs when your bowel movements are less frequent or they are more uncomfortable to pass, perhaps causing straining.

Worried about your symptoms? Talk to a doctor.

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Constipation is very common and it affects people of all ages. Often it can be caused by a change in your diet – perhaps not eating enough fruit, vegetables or fibre. Medications such as painkillers or iron supplements can also cause constipation.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet, drinking plenty of fluids and regular exercise can reduce your risk of developing constipation.  However if you experience on-going discomfort you should seek medical attention.

Related conditions

Anal tear (or anal fissure)

An anal tear or fissure is a cut or tear in the anal opening.

Anus and rectum

Bowel cancer

Your bowels are made up of two sections - the small and the large bowel (or colon). If cells begin to develop and multiply abnormally in your bowel they can become cancerous.

Bowel Obstruction

A blockage in any part of your bowel can prevent digested food or liquid from passing through your system.

Coeliac disease

Coeliac disease is your body’s reaction to gluten. If you have coeliac disease your immune system reacts to wheat, barley or rye by attacking the lining of your intestine. Some patients also react to oats.

Colon cancer

Your bowels are made up of two sections – the small and the large bowel (or colon). If cells begin to develop and multiply abnormally in your bowel they can become cancerous.

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis, and diverticular disease, occur when one or more pockets of diverticula in your bowel wall becomes infected or inflamed.

Gastrointestinal cancers

Gastrointestinal cancers, usually referred to as GI cancers, affect the majority of the digestive system, or the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach, biliary system, bowel pancreas, and liver.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a very common disorder of your gastrointestinal (digestive) tract.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson’s disease occurs when cells in your brain are damaged over time. Called a progressive neurological condition, symptoms occur due to a lack of a chemical called dopamine.

Pelvic floor dysfuntion

The muscles, ligaments and connective tissue that hold a women’s internal organs in place are called the pelvic floor. The bladder, bowel, uterus, vagina and rectum are held in place by the pelvic floor.

Pelvic oncology

Pelvic oncology involves the diagnosis and treatment of cancers of the organs in the lower part of your body.

Rectal prolapse

Rectal prolapse occurs when part or your entire rectum (last part of your colon where stool is stored) falls out of your anus (back passage).