Constipation is something almost everyone experiences at some point. A few days without a bowel movement, harder-than-usual stools, or feeling as though you haven't completely emptied your bowels may seem like minor inconveniences.

Usually, they are.

But severe or persistent constipation is different.

When constipation becomes intense, lasts for an unusually long time, or occurs together with symptoms such as significant abdominal swelling, vomiting, severe pain, inability to pass gas, or blood in the stool, it can sometimes signal a more serious problem.

In rare situations, severe intestinal inflammation or blockage can contribute to a dangerous condition known as toxic megacolon. Other complications, including fecal impaction or bowel obstruction, can also require urgent medical attention.

The important lesson is not to panic whenever you're constipated. It is to recognize when ordinary constipation may no longer be ordinary.

What Actually Counts as Constipation?

Constipation is more than simply not having a bowel movement every day.

Bowel habits vary considerably from person to person. Some healthy people go several times a day, while others may normally go only a few times a week.

Constipation generally involves symptoms such as:

• Having fewer bowel movements than is normal for you

• Passing hard or dry stools

• Straining significantly during bowel movements

• Feeling that stool remains in the bowel afterward

• Feeling that something is blocking the passage of stool

• Needing to use your fingers or other maneuvers to help pass stool

Occasional constipation is extremely common.

The concern increases when symptoms become severe, persistent, recurrent, or associated with other warning signs.

Why Does Severe Constipation Happen?

There isn't one single cause.

Sometimes the explanation is relatively simple: not enough fiber, insufficient fluid intake, reduced physical activity, or a change in daily routine.