Signs of constipation

Irregular bowel movements (usually less than 3 times a week) with hard, dry, and difficult-to-pass stool.

These are common signs of constipation:

• Infrequent bowel movements (less than 3 times a week)
• Difficulty passing stools
• Discomfort in the rectal area
• Having to strain when passing stools
• Bloating, stomach pain and discomfort
• Feeling that the bowel movement is incomplete even after passing stools
• Agitation and restlessness (often seen in individuals who have difficulty expressing discomfort verbally)

Pay special attention to these symptoms when constipation gets out of control:

• Shortness of breath
• Nausea and vomiting
• New onset confusion or drowsiness
• Severe pain when passing stool
• Bloating, visibly swollen, or enlarged abdomen
• Rectal bleeding
• Visible tearing in the anal area
• Fever (temperature over 38℃/100.4℉)
• Intense abdominal pain
• Urinary retention and/or a feeling of urgency to pass urine
• Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
• Excessive watery stools

Do not hesitate to reach out to a medical professional if you are at all concerned. Any significant change in symptoms, or the sudden onset of new symptoms, should be evaluated as soon as possible by a healthcare professional.