Constipation may involve infrequent bowel movements, hard stools, excessive straining, bloating, or a persistent sensation of incomplete evacuation. For many patients, symptoms become chronic and can contribute to discomfort, abdominal distention, and frustration despite over-the-counter remedies.

The underlying cause is not always dietary alone. Constipation may also be related to medications, pelvic floor dysfunction, hormonal conditions, or abnormalities involving colon motility. In select cases, specialized testing is helpful in identifying the source of symptoms and guiding more effective long-term treatment options.