Digestive health
Constipation
5 min read · General education
Overview
Constipation means passing stools less often than usual, or finding them hard and difficult to pass. It is common and usually improves with changes to diet and lifestyle.
Common symptoms
- Fewer bowel movements than usual
- Hard, dry or lumpy stools
- Straining or pain when passing stools
- Feeling bloated or that the bowel is not fully empty
Possible causes and risk factors
- Not eating enough fibre
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Low physical activity
- Changes in routine or diet
- Some medicines
- Ignoring the urge to go
Prevention and healthy lifestyle
- Gradually increase fibre from fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, daal and beans
- Drink plenty of fluids through the day
- Stay active — even a daily walk helps
- Keep a regular toilet routine
Nutrition and exercise considerations
- Choose whole-wheat atta roti and brown rice where affordable
- Add seasonal fruit such as guava, pears and papaya
- Increase fibre slowly to reduce wind and bloating
When to consult a healthcare professional
- Constipation lasting more than 2 weeks despite changes
- Blood in your stool
- Unexplained weight loss or tiredness
- Constipation alternating with diarrhoea
Emergency warning signs
- • Severe tummy pain with being unable to pass stools or wind, or vomiting — seek urgent care
In Pakistan, call Rescue 1122 or 115 (Edhi) in an emergency.