Constipation can affect anyone, at any age. Four-and-a-half million people say they are constipated most or all of the time, resulting in more than 2 million doctor visits for constipation problems each year. While adults over 65 report having constipation, women and children are more likely to report having problems. Constipation affects almost everyone at some point in their lives.

So you’re an occasional sufferer you’re certainly not alone. And the good news is, no matter what your age or situation, you can do something to help avoid and ease your constipation.

	Older People — Older people often don’t get sufficient exercise, drink enough fluids, or maintain a proper diet, and may need to take medications associated with constipation. Combine these factors with the normal tendency of aging to weaken the muscle tone of the large bowel, and occasional constipation is not a surprising result. The risk increases dramatically in people over 65.
	New Mothers — Following childbirth, many women experience constipation due to a slowdown of the digestive system and a temporary loss of muscle tone in the abdomen. In addition, discomfort from surgical incisions may require pain medicines which, in turn, can lead to medication-induced constipation.
	Pregnant Women — During pregnancy, many women experience constipation as their bodies produce more hormones that slow intestinal movement. In addition, their enlarged womb puts pressure against the bowels, and they often develop hemorrhoids. If you are pregnant or nursing a baby, consult your health professional before using a laxative.
	Travelers — No matter what your age or physical condition, business or vacation travel can disrupt your regular eating, sleeping, and normal bowel routines. The search for a toilet in an unfamiliar place can cause you to postpone the urge to go to the bathroom. Diarrhea, which often occurs when you eat or drink in a new location, can quickly change to constipation as your body recovers. When packing for a trip, be sure to take along a proven natural vegetable laxative just in case you develop a temporary problem with constipation.
	"Couch Potatoes" — Along with all the other benefits of exercise, add one more: it can help you avoid constipation. Sedentary people are simply more prone to problems with constipation than the physically active. Since exercise is so important, ask your doctor to recommend a fitness routine that suits your needs.
	Patients Taking Medications — Constipation may be associated with many prescription and over-the-counter medications. For more information, refer to “What medications may cause constipation?”
	Patients Recovering from Surgery — New medications, inadequate physical activity or use of a bedpan are all factors that contribute to constipation after surgery. Your physician may recommend a laxative with or without a stool softener to help you return to regular bowel movements if you are recovering from surgery.