Constipation is a common gastrointestinal condition characterized by difficulty or infrequency in passing stool, and it is considered chronic when symptoms last for at least 3 months. It can be classified as primary, which has no obvious cause, or secondary, which has an identifiable cause, and it is further categorized into subtypes based on specific characteristics.

The main symptoms of constipation include infrequent defecation, difficulty passing stools, excessive straining, a feeling of blockage in the anus or rectum, bloating, and abdominal pain.

Constipation is diagnosed based on factors such as weekly defecation frequency, ease of defecation, sensations during defecation, and stool characteristics, along with medical history and examinations for underlying causes. The Rome IV criteria can help identify specific subtypes of constipation, including functional constipation, IBS-C, opioid-induced constipation, and functional defecation disorder.

Constipation is primarily treated with osmotic laxatives, stimulant laxatives, and stool softeners, and common examples include polyethylene glycol, bisacodyl, and docusate; it is important to use laxatives as directed to avoid complications. Additional treatments may involve dietary fiber, certain medications, mineral oil, enemas, and in rare cases, surgery.

Several fiber supplements, particularly psyllium, have shown benefits for constipation, and probiotics, especially Bifidobacterium lactis, may also help. Additionally, herbs like senna and cascara, as well as magnesium, can act as laxatives, but high doses of magnesium should be used with caution and discussed with a healthcare provider.

A lower-fiber diet increases the risk of constipation, whereas increasing fiber intake can help alleviate it; prunes, mineral water, and kiwifruit are noted for their potential benefits. However, some people may experience gastrointestinal discomfort from the sorbitol found in prunes.

Assuming a deep squatting position (in which the angle between the thighs and lower legs is less than 90 degrees) may improve the ease of defecation. Additionally, increasing physical activity may help, and biofeedback therapy can assist people with functional defecation disorders in coordinating the necessary muscles for stool passage.

Constipation can be caused by a variety of health conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors, and the specific reasons differ among individuals. Key contributors include hypothyroidism, diabetes, certain medications like opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as a low-fiber diet, physical inactivity, and low fluid intake.