Overview
Constipation is infrequent, irregular or difficult emptying of the bowels and is a common condition that can affect people of all ages. The severity and symptoms of constipation experienced will vary from person to person. Many people only experience constipation for a short period of time, but for others, constipation can be a longer-term condition that can be uncomfortable and can impact quality of life.Â
Â
The Bristol Stool Chart, as shown below, is an easy way to understand whether you’re likely to have constipation. Types 1 and 2 are typically classed as stools from someone suffering.Â
![[DECORATIVE]](https://phx-senokot-ie-prod.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/media/z2pdkqln/the-bristol-stool-chart.jpeg)
Â
Causes
Constipation can have many causes and sometimes, there’s no single or obvious cause. Here are some of the most common causes of constipation:Â
- Diet - lack of fibreÂ
- Fluids – not drinking enough water or consuming too much caffeine or alcoholÂ
- Exercise - lack of movementÂ
- StressÂ
Some medicines and medical conditions can cause constipation, but it is advised that you speak to your GP to discuss this further.Â
Treatment
For effective constipation relief, you can treat using the following:
Lifestyle Changes
You can try to ease your symptoms at home, before seeking medical advice if symptoms persist. You may notice an improvement in a few days, but it can take a few weeks.
Changing Your Diet – increasing fibre and water intake, reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption
Toilet Routine – attempting to go at the same time each day, but if not possible, ensuring that whenever you do need, you try not to restrict bowel movement
Exercise
LaxativesÂ
If changing your diet and lifestyle doesn’t seem to help, you might need to try a laxative to help ease symptoms.
Speak to your GP or Pharmacist if you are unsure of which one to use.
Bulk-forming (like Fybogel)- increases the weight of the stool, which makes you feel you want to go to the toilet
Osmotic - draws water into the bowel, making the stool softer and easier to pass
Stimulants (like Senokot) - stimulates the muscles of the gut, making the bowel work harder to move stools along
Useful Advice
Breaking the Cycle of Constipation
Needing to flush away that feeling of constipation? Click to read about what you can do to help, as well as spotting the signs of constipation in your stools.
What Causes Constipation?
Constipation can have many causes and sometimes, there’s no single or obvious cause. This article outlines some of the most common causes, from both a lifestyle and medical perspective.
What are effective ways to relieve constipation?
You can ease your symptoms at home by changing your diet and lifestyle. It’s okay to make small changes, even if you’re pregnant. You may notice an improvement in a few days, but it can take a few weeks.Â
What are the signs and symptoms of constipation?
Constipation is a common condition that can affect people of all ages, but symptoms experienced vary from person to person. Find out what the most common signs and symtoms are in this article.
Our Products
Senokot 7.5mg Tablets
![]()
Gentle effective constipation relief
![]()
Works in 8-12 hours
![]()
Helps restore your natural rhythm
![]()
Predictable relief
Fybogel Orange 3.5g Granules
![]()
Relieves constipation and helps maintain regularity
![]()
Usually acts within 12-24 hours.
![]()
Available in: 10s and 30s
![]()
Age: Adults and children over 6 years (See product leaflet for full dosage instructions)
FyboCalm Constipation Relief Capsules
![]()
Long-lasting relief for recurrent constipation due to IBS
![]()
Gluten Free and Lactose Free
![]()
Helps prevent gut symptoms recurring![]()
Forms a protective film to soothe, strengthen and promote the restoration of the gut lining
