Testing may be recommended for persistent symptoms
Depending on warning signs and the clinical course, we may direct you to a facility that can perform an abdominal examination, blood tests, imaging, or colonoscopy.
ABOUT YOUR SYMPTOMS
Constipation
Constipation may be related to diet, reduced activity, medication, or bowel function. New or severe symptoms may require examination.
ONLINE CONSULTATION
What can be discussed online
Constipation may be related to diet, reduced activity, medication, or bowel function. New or severe symptoms may require examination.
- Hard or infrequent stools without severe pain
- Chronic constipation that has not suddenly changed
- Advice on diet, habits, and medication
The doctor may recommend an in-person visit or tests when online assessment is not sufficient.
Possible causes include functional constipation, dehydration, medication effects, irritable bowel syndrome, and hypothyroidism. Bowel obstruction or colorectal disease must be considered when warning signs are present.
These symptoms may indicate bowel obstruction or another serious condition. If any of the following apply, prioritize in-person or emergency care.
Severe abdominal swelling or repeated vomiting
Unable to pass stool or gas with pain
Blood in the stool or unexplained weight loss
Sudden new constipation with marked deterioration
We may recommend in-person care and testing
- Stools have suddenly become narrow or contain blood
- Unintentional weight loss
- Persistent constipation or sudden worsening
- An abnormal colorectal cancer screening result
If you have severe abdominal pain and vomiting and cannot pass stool or gas, consider seeking emergency care.
To understand your condition as accurately as possible, the doctor will review the following points in order.
- 01Date of your last bowel movement and your usual frequency
- 02Stool hardness, amount, and any blood
- 03Abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, and whether you can pass gas
- 04Diet, fluid intake, and exercise
- 05Weight changes and screening history
- 06Current medicines and laxative use
Treatment depends on the type of constipation
We will review diet, fluid intake, and bowel habits and may consider medicines that soften the stool when appropriate.
Avoid prolonged use of stimulant laxatives or combining several over-the-counter products. Tell the doctor the names of all products you use.
BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Please prepare
01Bowel movement recordFrequency and stool hardness
02Food and fluid intakeAny changes from your usual habits
03Laxatives in useIncluding over-the-counter products
04Health-check or test resultsIf available
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions about this symptom
Can I consult you if I am already using an over-the-counter laxative?
Yes. Please tell us the product name, dose, and frequency so that we can avoid duplication.
How many days without a bowel movement means I should seek care?
The number of days alone does not determine urgency. We also consider abdominal pain, vomiting, ability to pass gas, and your usual bowel pattern.
ONLINE CARE
Constipation
The doctor may recommend an in-person visit or tests when online assessment is not sufficient.
Book an online consultation