Chronic Constipation
1 medicine
Chronic constipation means persistently difficult, infrequent, or incomplete bowel movements lasting three months or more. Fibre and fluid help mild cases; motility agents such as prucalopride treat more persistent constipation.
Key facts
- Chronic constipation means fewer than three bowel movements per week, with straining, hard stools, or a sense of incomplete emptying, lasting at least three months.
- It usually follows one of two patterns: the colon moving stool too slowly, or the rectal muscles and nerves not coordinating properly during a bowel movement.
- Low fibre intake, low fluid intake, reduced activity, and some medicines (including certain antacids and pain relievers) all make it worse.
- Fibre, fluids, and routine help many people; when they fall short, motility agents such as prucalopride target the colon directly.
When the gut stops keeping pace
Chronic constipation is defined as fewer than three bowel movements per week, combined with straining, hard stools, or a persistent sense of incomplete emptying, lasting for at least three months. The condition usually has one of two patterns. In slow-transit constipation, the colon moves stool too slowly; in outlet dysfunction, the muscles and nerves around the rectum do not coordinate properly during a bowel movement. Both can produce the same daily discomfort, bloating, and low-grade fatigue.
What makes it worse
Low fibre intake, reduced physical activity, inadequate fluid consumption, and frequent travel all worsen the picture. Certain medicines, including some antacids and pain relievers, can also slow colonic movement as a side effect, so a medication review is worth doing if constipation appears after starting something new.
Treatment approaches
For many people, adding soluble fibre, drinking more water, and establishing a regular bathroom routine is enough. When those steps fall short, medicines that work directly on gut motility become relevant. Prucalopride is a selective gut-motility agent used for chronic constipation; it targets receptors in the colon to stimulate coordinated movement. More options for gut and bowel conditions are listed under digestive health.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you notice blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, or a significant change in bowel habit, especially after age 50, as these warrant further investigation rather than self-treatment.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.