Constipation is when you’re not passing stools – or poo – regularly, or you’re unable to completely empty your bowel.
It is a common condition that affects people of all ages, according to the NHS.
As well as poo that comes out hard and lumpy, the condition can also cause stools to be unusually large or small.
Most people should only experience it for a short time, after which it should pass naturally.
However, others may have constipation long-term which can trigger significant pain and impact on their quality of life.
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These are three main cause of the condition.
Diet
According to the NHS, not eating enough fibre, such as fruit, vegetables and cereals can trigger it.
They recommend increasing your daily intake of fibre and ensuring you are getting at least 18 to 30g a day.
You could also add bulking agents, such as wheat bran, to your diet, which will make stools softer and easier to pass.
Medication
The condition can be a side effect of medicine you are taking.
According to the NHS, types known to cause it include antidepressants, calcium supplements, iron supplements, opiate painkillers such as codeine or morphine, diuretics, antipsychotics to treat schizophrenia and other mental health conditions, antiepileptics for conditions like epilepsy, and antacids for indigestion.
Constipation should usually ease if you stop taking the medication, however you should not do this without consulting a doctor first.
Additionally, you can take a painkiller such as paracetamol to ease discomfort.
Serious condition
The NHS note that in rare cases constipation can be a symptom of something more concerning.
It could indicate a condition like irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes or an underactive thyroid gland.
However, it may also point to multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease, bowel cancer and a spinal cord injury.
If you are concerned that your constipation is not going away you should see a doctor.
As well as changing your diet, avoiding dehydration and increasing exercise, constipation can be treated with laxatives that help you pass stools.
You can also try placing your feet on a stool when you go to the toilet, and by going to the toilet when you feel the urge and not delaying.
It is important to treat constipation since it can sometimes cause complications.
These include rectal bleeding and faecal impaction – where dried, hard stools collect in your rectum and anus.