Key points
- Hard stools or straining
- Fibre, water and movement help
- Go when you feel the urge
- Blood in stool = see a doctor
What it is
Constipation means passing stools less often than usual, or stools that are hard, dry and difficult to pass. 'Normal' varies — anywhere from three times a day to three times a week can be normal for different people.
It is very common at all ages, and most cases improve with changes in food, fluid and routine.
Common signs
- Fewer than three bowel movements a week
- Hard, dry or lumpy stools
- Straining or pain while passing stools
- A feeling of not having emptied fully
- Bloating and abdominal discomfort
Common causes
- Too little fibre — fruit, vegetables, whole grains, dal
- Not drinking enough water
- Sitting for long hours, little exercise
- Ignoring the urge to go
- Travel and changes in routine
- Some medicines, such as iron tablets and certain painkillers
Everyday care that helps
- Add fibre slowly: fruit, salad, vegetables, whole wheat, oats, dal, soaked raisins or figs
- Drink enough water through the day
- Walk or exercise daily
- Go when you feel the urge; try a regular time each morning
- Use a small footstool to raise the knees while sitting on the toilet
When to see a doctor promptly
- Blood in or on the stools
- Severe stomach pain or vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss
- A recent lasting change in bowel habit, especially after age 50
- No stool or gas passed for several days with a swollen belly
How we approach it at Gursagar
We ask about your bowel pattern, diet, water, activity, medicines, stress and general health.
Dr. Shah prescribes classical homoeopathic medicine chosen for you individually, together with simple diet and routine advice, reviewed at follow-ups.
Common questions
Should I take laxatives every day?
Not without medical advice; long-term use can make the bowel lazy.
Is it common in children?
Yes. Fibre, water, activity and a relaxed toilet routine help.
Can I consult online?
Yes.
Practising classical homoeopathy since 1999 · Gursagar Homoeopathic Hospital, Rajpura & Chandigarh · Full profile →
Would you like Dr. Shah to look at your case?
Consult in person at Rajpura or Chandigarh, or online from anywhere in India and abroad.
This article is for general health education and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Every person is assessed individually, and results differ from person to person. Please do not stop or change any medicine prescribed to you without speaking to your doctor. Dr. Randeep Singh Shah, D.H.M.S., AFHom (UK) · Reg. No. 2423-A.