Definition & Meaning of "constipation"

What is "constipation"?

Constipation is a common digestive problem where a person has few bowel movements or difficulty passing stool. Symptoms include having fewer than three bowel movements a week, hard or dry stools, and pushing hard to have a bowel movement. Causes of constipation can include a lack of fiber in the diet, not drinking enough water, lack of physical activity, certain medications, and ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement. Treatment typically involves increasing fiber and water intake, exercising regularly, and sometimes using over-the-counter medicines that help in passing stool.