Constipation is when you are passing stools less often than you normally do. Your stool becomes hard and dry, and it is difficult to pass. You might feel bloated and have pain, or you might have to strain when you try to go.
Below are some questions you may want to ask your doctor or nurse to help you take care of your constipation.
How often should I go to the bathroom during the day? How long should I wait? What else can I do to “train” my body to have more regular bowel movements?
How should I change what I eat to help with my constipation?
Do any of the medicines, vitamins, herbs, or supplements I am taking cause constipation?
What products can I buy at the store to help with my constipation? What is the best way to take these?
If my constipation or hard stools started recently, does this mean I have a more serious medical problem?
When should I call the doctor?
What to ask your doctor about constipation
Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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