Constipation: What Helps and When to Get Checked
What constipation is, common causes including medicines, what helps (fiber, fluids, routine, movement, laxatives), what research says about foods, and when to get checked.
Content last updated . This page has not been medically reviewed.
What constipation is
Constipation can mean fewer than three bowel movements a week, stools that are hard, dry or lumpy, stools that are hard or painful to pass, or a feeling that not all stool has passed. [1] People differ in their normal patterns, and only you know what is normal for you. [1]Constipation is not a disease. It can be a symptom of another medical problem, and it can be short-term or long-lasting. [1] About 16 out of 100 adults in the US have symptoms of constipation, and about 33 out of 100 adults ages 60 and older do. [1]
Common causes
- Not enough fiber, not enough fluids, or too little physical activity. [2]
- Medicines and supplements. These include antacids containing aluminum or calcium, iron supplements, some pain medicines, some antidepressants, diuretics and others. [2] If you think a medicine is the cause, talk with your doctor and do not stop or change it on your own. [3]
- Life changes such as pregnancy, getting older, travel, ignoring the urge to go, or changing what you eat. [2]
- Other health conditions, including functional gut disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, diabetes and an underactive thyroid. [2]
What helps
| Step | What the sources say | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber from food | Adults are advised to get 22 to 34 grams a day depending on age and sex; add it gradually. [4] | Established recommendation |
| Fluids | Drink plenty of liquids so fiber can work better. [4] | Established recommendation |
| Physical activity | May help relieve symptoms. [3] | Established advice |
| Bowel training | Try to go at the same time each day, such as 15 to 45 minutes after breakfast; give yourself time and use the bathroom as soon as you feel the need. [3] | Common clinical advice |
| Fiber supplements | A US guideline for chronic idiopathic constipation (constipation without a known cause) made a conditional recommendation for fiber. [5] | Conditional recommendation |
| Specific foods | British dietitian guidelines made statements about kiwifruit, prunes, rye bread and mineral-rich water, but most statements across the guideline were rated low or very low in certainty. [6] | Promising but limited |
Plain fiber advice is on fiber, fluids and meal patterns. Psyllium, a common fiber supplement, is covered in psyllium, ginger and peppermint. Oats, beans and lentils are fiber-rich foods in Functional Foods.
Laxatives
Over-the-counter laxatives are not all alike: fiber supplements, osmotic agents, stool softeners, lubricants and stimulants. NIDDK says to use stimulants only if constipation is severe or other treatments have not worked. [3] Laxatives should generally be used for a short time and a pharmacist can suggest a suitable one. [7] If you have used laxatives for a long time and cannot go without them, talk with your doctor about how to slowly stop. [3]If self-care does not work, doctors can prescribe other medicines. The US guideline made strong recommendations for several medicines for chronic constipation without a known cause. [5]
For safety information on herbal products and supplements used as laxatives, read how interactions work and natural does not mean safe before using them.
When to get checked
See a doctor if symptoms do not go away with self-care, or if you have a family history of colon or rectal cancer. [2] Get help right away if constipation comes with rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, constant belly pain, inability to pass gas, vomiting, fever or weight loss you did not intend. [2] Also see a doctor if you notice a sudden change in your bowel habits. [7] In the US, call 911 in an emergency. See digestive symptoms: red flags.Frequently asked questions
How often should I have a bowel movement?
Fewer than three bowel movements a week is a common definition of constipation, but normal varies from person to person. [1]
Does drinking more water cure constipation?
Fluids help fiber work and help you avoid dehydration, and they are part of the usual advice. [4] They are one piece, not a cure.
Can my medicines cause constipation?
Yes. Several common medicines and supplements can, including iron supplements and some pain medicines. [2]
Is it safe to use laxatives every day?
Laxatives are generally meant for short-term use. Talk with a pharmacist or doctor if you need them often. [7]
References
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIH). Definition & Facts for Constipation. Read 2026-10-22.
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIH). Symptoms & Causes of Constipation. Read 2026-10-22.
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIH). Treatment for Constipation. Read 2026-10-22.
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIH). Eating, Diet, & Nutrition for Constipation. Read 2026-10-22.
- AGA-ACG Clinical Practice Guideline: Pharmacological Management of Chronic Idiopathic Constipation. Am J Gastroenterol 2023 (PubMed). Read 2026-10-22.
- British Dietetic Association. Guidelines for the Dietary Management of Chronic Constipation in Adults. J Hum Nutr Diet 2025 (PubMed). Read 2026-10-22.
- NHS (UK). Constipation. Read 2026-10-22.