When should I see a doctor about constipation?
What is constipation? Good question [“Thanks” MyHSN Ed]. There is no accepted definition. Most doctors consider that it is a reduction in the frequency of pooing (from your normal, which can be 3x a day to 2x a week; yes, the range is wide), or difficulty passing poo.
Most constipation is not serious, and will pass in 2-3 days. It can be sorted with some dietary changes: prune juice, flax seeds and kiwi fruit is a good combination.
Anyway. This is when should you see a doctor about constipation.
New constipation
If you have never been constipated before, or if you have rapidly developed severe constipation, you should see a doctor.
Blood in your poo
You should see a doctor if you see blood in your poo or are bleeding from your rectum.
Weight loss
If you are losing weight without trying, you should see a doctor.
Pain
If you have severe abdominal pain, lower back pain, or pain whilst pooing, you should see a doctor.
Other symptoms
You should also see a doctor if you:
- Are vomiting
- Are not passing poo at all, or not passing wind (farting)
- Have a fever
- Are regularly bloated
- Feel tired all the time
- Your constipation lasts more than three weeks
- Are having alternating constipation and diarrhoea
- You are taking medication that is causing constipation.
