Constipation (hard stool that are infrequent and difficult to pass)
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Emergent Care - Have you identified one or more of the following symptoms?
- Sudden, severe abdominal pain
- Nausea, vomiting and fever 101.0 F or above
- Active rectal bleeding with or without the passage of stool
- Abdominal distention and inability to pass gas
| Yes |
No |
Seek Immediate Medical Attention!
These symptoms can be life-threatening. |
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| Some medications can cause constipation (iron, pain pills)
Too much fiber without adequate water can cause abdominal cramping
Bowel movements vary in frequency from 3 times daily to once a week
Stool may become stuck in the rectum (impacted) and liquid and mucus may leak out, stool must then be manually removed
The body can become dependent on laxatives, use only as needed
Do not resist the urge to move your bowels |
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Urgent Care - Have you identified one or more of the following symptoms?
- Abdominal bloating and constipation
- Bowel movement does not occur within 1 week
- Rectal bleeding continues after constipation resolves
- Change in bowel habits-alternating constipation and diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation continues after 1 week of self-management
| Yes |
No |
Contact Your Health Care Provider. |
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Self-Management - You can help in the following ways:
- Increase fluids to 10-12, 8 oz. glasses of water, if no reasons to the contrary
- Increase fruits, high fiber cereals, prunes and vegetables in your diet
- Take over the counter (OTC) stool softener (Colace) or mild laxative (Milk of Magnesia) as directed
- Use psyllium (Metamucil, Fiber Con) 1-2 tsp. in 8 oz. of water
- Increase exercise
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