First, some reassurance. Most people with this symptom do not have anything serious — but it is always better to know than to worry. A quick assessment can put your mind at rest or get treatment started early, when it works best.
Common, usually harmless causes
Diet, fluids and activity
Not enough fibre or water, or a change in routine, are the most common reasons.
Medication
Painkillers (especially codeine), iron and some other medicines slow the bowel down.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Can cause constipation, bloating and cramping that come and go.
Why it's worth getting checked
When constipation is new, persistent, or alternates with diarrhoea, it can occasionally be caused by a narrowing in the bowel from a polyp or cancer. This is why a recent, unexplained change is always worth checking.
When to get this checked
Please arrange to be seen if:
- Constipation is new for you and has lasted more than three weeks
- It alternates with episodes of diarrhoea
- There is bleeding, tummy pain, bloating, or weight loss
- You feel you cannot fully empty your bowel
- You are over 50, or have a family history of bowel cancer
Get urgent help now if…
Go to A&E or call 999 (or NHS 111 for advice) if:
- Severe tummy pain with a bloated, tense abdomen
- You cannot pass any stool or wind at all, with vomiting
These need emergency care, not a routine appointment. Please do not wait for a private booking.
How I can help — and how quickly
If your symptom is not an emergency, you do not have to sit on a waiting list to get answers. Here is how it usually works:
- A quick telephone consultation. Often arranged within 24 hours. I listen to your history and explain what is likely going on.
- The right test, arranged fast. Where appropriate, I can organise a colonoscopy and, where helpful, a scan to make sure the bowel is healthy promptly — sometimes before your first face-to-face visit, to speed things up.
- Clear answers and a plan. We go through your results together, and I explain exactly what they mean and what happens next.
Some symptoms need an in-person examination first, and I will always tell you honestly what the best next step is for you.
Why patients choose me
- JAG-accredited in colonoscopy & gastroscopy
- Near-100% caecal intubation rate at colonoscopy
- 8,000+ procedures performed
- FRCS — Consultant Colorectal & General Surgeon
Request a telephone consultation
Prefer a call before coming in? Leave your details below and my secretary will contact you to arrange a telephone consultation, usually within 24 hours. Where appropriate, a phone consultation can fast-track you straight to the right test.
Prefer to email directly? Email a 24-hour callback request · or call 01926 935121
Your details are used only to arrange your consultation. Please don't include sensitive medical information in this form.
Get seen quickly
Call my secretary to arrange a fast appointment, or book online via my Nuffield Health profile. I see patients privately at Nuffield Health Warwickshire Hospital, Leamington Spa.
Call 01926 935121Common questions
Is constipation ever serious?
Usually not — but a new, unexplained or persistent change deserves checking, particularly with bleeding, pain or weight loss.
Do I need a camera test?
Not always. After understanding your symptoms I will recommend only the assessment that is right for you, and reassure you wherever I can.
Can I get seen quickly?
Yes — a telephone consultation can usually be arranged within a day or two, with any tests soon after.