See your doctor if you go more than 3 days without a bowel movement accompanied by pain or swelling

When to See a Doctor
Don’t ignore persistent constipation, especially if it comes with:

Severe pain

Blood in stool

Sudden weight loss

Vomiting

Swollen abdomen

Early detection can prevent complications like megacolon and reduce the risk of emergency surgery.

Conclusion
Severe constipation is often manageable with diet, hydration, and movement — but when neglected, it can spiral into a dangerous condition like toxic megacolon. The key is to listen to your body, act early, and never ignore drastic changes in bowel function. If in doubt, always consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.