Email: info@hje.org.uk

Constipation is a very common condition, affecting people of all ages. It can mean that you are not passing stools (faeces) as often as you normally do, you have to strain more than usual or you are unable to completely empty your bowels.

Many people only experience constipation for a short period of time with no lasting effects on their health.

Causes:
Eating too little fibre e.g not enough fruit, vegetables, and cereals
Drinking too little fluid
Some medicines can cause constipation, including pain killers containing codeine, some antacids, and iron tablets
Some medical conditions including: underactive thyroid, I.B.S. (irritable bowel syndrome)

Treatment
The treatment of constipation is simple and dietary changes are frequently advised.

Consider further tests if symptoms prove troublesome or there are associated symptoms such as bleeding, weight loss, bouts of diarrhoea or symptoms are severe and recurring.