What you can try at home

If you are having difficulty passing stools (going for a poo), changing your diet may be all that’s needed to ease your constipation without taking medicines.

Self-care tips:

• If your constipation is causing pain, take a painkiller, such as paracetamol.
• Add more fibre to your diet, such as fruit, vegetables, wholewheat pasta, wholemeal bread, seeds, nuts and oats. This may take a few days to have an effect.
• Make sure you’re drinking enough water. Cut down on caffeine, alcohol and fizzy drinks.
• Regular exercise will greatly reduce your risk of getting constipation.
• If diet and lifestyle changes don’t help, try an over-the-counter laxative. Ask your pharmacist’s advice and follow the instructions on the packet or leaflet carefully.

When to seek professional help

If over-the-counter laxatives don’t ease your symptoms, see your GP.

Find more information on treating constipation.