If you’re experiencing constipation that isn’t going away, you should speak with a primary care doctor first. They can look closely at your symptoms to help determine the cause of your constipation.

If your symptoms are severe, a doctor may refer you to a gastroenterologist, a specialist focusing on the digestive system. They can provide a more detailed assessment of your symptoms and overall health.

Feeling constipated from time to time is common. However, you should speak with a doctor if you develop constipation along with any of the following symptoms:

A small amount of blood in your stool is typically not serious. However, if your poop is black or dark red, or you have bloody diarrhea, you should seek emergency medical support.

This may be a sign of bleeding in the digestive tract, which requires immediate medical intervention.

In most cases, you can treat constipation at home through the following:

  • Altering your diet: Adding more high fiber foods to your diet can help soften up your stool and make it easier to pass.
  • Drinking more water: This can help soften your stool and keep your digestive system moving.
    Exercising regularly: Physical activity can help stimulate a bowel movement.
  • Retraining your bowel: Training yourself to pass stool at the same time every day may help your bowel movements become regular.

If lifestyle measures don’t help you find relief from constipation, a doctor may suggest taking a laxative.

Common types of laxatives include:

  • osmotic laxatives, such as Milk of Magnesia and polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX)
  • stimulant laxatives, such as bisacodyl (DulcoLAX) and senna (Sennosides)
  • bulk-forming laxatives, such as psyllium (Metamucil) and methylcellulose (Citrucel)

It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional if symptoms become more frequent or severe.