🚑 Seek urgent care if:
- No passage of stool or gas with abdominal distension and vomiting (possible obstruction), blood in the stool, severe pain, unintentional weight loss, or a persistent recent change in bowel habit (especially over age 50).→ Do not self-treat. Seek prompt medical evaluation.
Classical understanding
- Attributed chiefly to aggravated apāna vāta and dryness in the bowel, often from irregular routine, low fluid, and dry or heavy foods.
General self-care (safe for most)
- Increase dietary fibre (fruit, vegetables, whole grains), drink adequate warm water, keep a regular routine and gentle daily movement; warm foods with a little healthy fat can help.
Persistent constipation, or any red-flag feature, should be assessed by a Vaidya or physician.
View sources — 2 classical & official references ›
- Classical text Charaka Saṁhitā
- Classical text Mādhava Nidāna