Constipation Constipation is a common digestive concern that can make bowel movements difficult, uncomfortable, or less frequent than usual. It may happen occasionally because of diet, dehydration, travel, stress, medications, or changes in routine. For some people, constipation becomes recurrent or chronic and may need medical evaluation. Most mild constipation improves with simple lifestyle changes, but constipation should not be ignored when it is severe, painful, persiste