Constipation in adults

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goodtoknow says: If you have hard stools that are painful to pass or mean you have to strain, you're probably constipated. Constipation is common and painful but there's plenty you can do to help yourself and prevent it happening again. Eating more fibre, such as fruit and vegetables, and drinking at least two litres of water every day can help relieve constipation. Fluids will soften the stools and make them easier to pass. Laxatives should only be used as a last resort. Constipation isn't always caused by a poor diet ? medicines, especially painkillers containing codeine, can cause it, so can pregnancy.

For a full medical explanation of the causes, symptoms and treatments of constipation from patient.co.uk, read on.

A common cause of constipation is not eating enough fibre. Less common causes include a side-effect from medicines, and certain medical conditions. In many cases the cause is not clear. The common treatment and prevention of constipation is to eat plenty of fibre, and to drink plenty. Laxatives are sometimes needed but, ideally, should only be used for short periods of time until symptoms ease.