General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
Usual bowel frequency varies between people. Hard stools or difficulty passing them also matter when describing constipation.
Note when your pattern changed and the circumstances: travel, different meals or reduced mobility. This prepares the discussion without establishing the cause on its own.
The doctor considers habits, current medicines and the impact on daily life. Further tests depend on the cause being investigated.
With no warning signs, for a few days without other symptoms or an already assessed episode, do not delay the urge or strain. Increase fibre gradually and respect medical fluid restrictions.
See a doctor in the coming days for blood, weight loss or persistent constipation. After age 50, new and marked constipation also needs this assessment.
Fever with severe abdominal pain: consult the same day. Vomiting, abdominal pain and inability to pass gas: call 15 or 112 immediately in France, before any booking.
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Your health review
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Mon bilan prévention is an appointment to discuss your habits and choose your health priorities. Review the four age groups and practical information.