Constipation Causes & Risks

Causes

Constipation has many causes, including:

Not enough fluid intake
Overuse of laxative medicines
Too little exercise
Bed rest
Certain medications, including:
- Pain relievers
- Narcotics
- Aluminum-containing antacids
- Antidepressant and antipsychotic medications
- Medications for epilepsy and Parkinson's disease
- Antispasmodic medications
- Tranquilizers
- Iron supplements
- Calcium channel blockers
Frequently delaying the need to have a bowel movement
Pregnancy
Diabetes
Spasm of the anal sphincter, due to painful anal fissures or hemorrhoids
Underactive thyroid
Irritable bowel syndrome (periods of constipation may alternate with episodes of diarrhea)
Neurological diseases such as:
- Parkinson's disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Stroke
- Spinal cord injuries
- Spinal cord tumors
Scleroderma
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Intestinal disorders, including:
- Scarring
- Tumors
- Cancer
- Inflammation
Travel, due to schedule changes, stress, and poor diet

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

Advancing age
Sedentary lifestyle
Prolonged bed rest due to surgery or an accident
Diet that is high in fat and sugar, and low in fiber

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2026 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.