Constipation: UK Online Doctor Treatment Guide
Educational information — not medical advice.
This article was prepared by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and reviewed for factual accuracy against UK clinical guidance (NHS and NICE). It is not written by a doctor and does not replace personal medical advice. For symptoms specific to you, book an online doctor consultation.
Key points
- Constipation: hard, infrequent or difficult stools.
- Increase fibre, fluids and movement.
- Laxatives: bulk-forming first, then osmotic (Movicol), then stimulant.
- Persistent constipation needs review for underlying cause.
- An online GP can prescribe and assess.
Self-care
- 30 g fibre daily — vegetables, fruit, oats, beans.
- 2 L of fluid daily.
- Daily movement.
- Don't ignore the urge to go.
- Footstool to raise knees on the toilet helps.
Laxatives
- Bulk-forming: ispaghula (Fybogel).
- Osmotic: macrogol (Movicol), lactulose.
- Stimulant: senna, bisacodyl.
- Stool softener: docusate.
- Prucalopride for severe chronic constipation.
Red flags — when to seek urgent help
Call 999 or go to A&E if you experience any of the following:
- Blood in stool
- Unintentional weight loss
- New onset over age 50
- Persistent change in bowel habit
Frequently asked questions
Common questions UK patients ask about constipation.
How an online doctor can help
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This article is for general information only and does not replace personal medical advice from a qualified doctor. Content is reviewed against UK NHS and NICE guidance by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and is not authored by a medical doctor. If your symptoms worsen or you are unsure, please book a consultation with a GMC-registered GP.
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