Constipation is when bowel movements are difficult to have or occur infrequently compared to normal movements. The number of bowel movements a person has may vary by person, but three per week, or more, is considered normal.

Occasional constipation is common, but chronic constipation can affect a person’s daily routine.

Constipation occurs when stool moves at a slower than usual rate through the digestive tract and cannot be passed. The stool may then become hard and dry out, making it more difficult to eliminate.

Chronic constipation could be linked to several causes. These conditions including diet, underlying medical conditions, or blockage of the colon or rectum.