Constipation in adults

When to seek medical advice

Consult your doctor if your constipation:

Is more severe than usual
Lasts longer than usual
Alternates with diarrhea
Is accompanied by abdominal or rectal pain, rectal bleeding, blood in your stool, black stools, or unexplained weight loss

Find possible causes of constipation based on specific factors. Check one or more factors on this page that apply to your symptom.

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