When constipation is a symptom of another medical condition, it is important to treat the underlying condition. Some conditions may not have a cure and may require ongoing treatment to manage symptoms, including constipation. Individual episodes of constipation can be treated in a number of ways.

Constipation that occurs without fecal impaction (and no underlying medical condition) is commonly treated with an increase in fluids, fiber and exercise. If changes in diet or physical activity are not effective, laxatives may be used. Patients should consult with their physician before using laxatives, which can interfere with the absorption of various medicines. In addition, overuse of laxatives can destroy the colon’s natural ability to contract and lead to dependence on laxatives. 

Laxatives can be taken by mouth in liquid, pill, chewing gum or powder form. They are also available in suppository form for insertion into the anus, or can be used in an enema. In general, suppositories and enemas work more quickly than pills to restore normal bowel movement.

If constipation occurs with fecal impaction, the most common treatment is a tap-water enema. This flushes the stool from the rectum and lower part of the large intestine (colon). A physician may also use a gloved finger to manually remove the stool. The patient may first be asked to drink a solution of salt and polyethylene glycol, which helps clean the digestive system.

When constipation occurs with dyschezia (the inability to relax muscles around the rectum and anus), biofeedback may be used to help regain the ability to contract and release the anal sphincter. The surgical removal of the colon may be necessary with severe constipation caused by colonic inertia (when stool fails to be pushed through the large intestine and remains stored in the colon).