Medical Minutes: Understanding constipation

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA)- Constipation is common, but in some cases it may signal a more serious medical condition requiring emergency care.

Leala Martinez, nurse practitioner with exceptional Community Hospital in Yuma explains warning signs people should never ignore.

"Many cases of constipation improve with fluids, diet changes, or over the counter treatments, but severe symptoms should always be taken seriously. You should head to the emergency room if constipation is accompanied by a severe abdominal pain, vomiting, inability to pass gas, fever, abdominal swelling, blood in stool, or worsening weakness. These symptoms may be related to bowel blockage, infection, or inflammation, or other serious GI conditions," says Martinez.