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If you're constipated, you have difficulty passing a stool. And you may not pass a stool very often.

It's hard to say exactly when someone is constipated. People's bowel habits vary a lot. And people have different ideas about what's normal.

Many people get short bouts of constipation from time to time. But sometimes you can have constipation that doesn't go away. Doctors call this chronic constipation.

You may have chronic constipation if you have two or more of these symptoms for at least 12 weeks in a year:¹

• You strain to pass a stool at least a quarter of the time
• You pass stools that are lumpy or hard at least a quarter of the time
• You feel your bowels aren't completely empty after going to the bathroom at least a quarter of the time
• You have three or fewer bowel movements a week.

You might also have discomfort or pain in your abdomen.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.