Constipation is usually treated with changes in diet and exercise or with nonprescription medicines. Constipation may require medicines, changes in medicines or other treatments prescribed by a health care professional. Long-term constipation, also called chronic constipation, may require treating another disease or condition that can cause or worsen constipation.
Treatment for constipation usually begins with diet and lifestyle changes meant to increase the speed at which stool moves through the colon. Also, your health care professional may change the medicines you take if they may be causing or worsening constipation. If those changes don't help, other treatments may be necessary. Diet and lifestyle ...
constipation foe, Laxatives can help relieve and prevent constipation. But not all laxatives are safe for long-term use. Overuse of certain laxatives may lead to dependency and decreased bowel function. Constipation is a common problem, and there are many types of laxatives available to help treat it. Stool softeners, also called emollients, work by drawing fluids into stools, which is supposed to make them softer.
constipation foe, This may make it easier to have a bowel movement without straining. Over-the-counter stool softeners are effective for some people. Chronic constipation care at Mayo Clinic Your Mayo Clinic care team. In addition to a gastroenterologist, the care team may include specialists in colon and rectal surgery, gynecology, and physical medicine and rehabilitation. The care team works together to make an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan for your needs. Advanced diagnostic resources.
Specialists at Mayo Clinic can use ... Learn about baby bowel habits so you can recognize the difference between typical stool passage and constipation in infants. Small changes can add up when it comes to constipation. Many people get relief from simple adjustments to their diet and daily routines.