Claim: Hypothyroidism can cause constipation.

Constipation refers to bowel movements that are infrequent or hard to pass . The stool is often hard and dry . Other symptoms may include abdominal pain , bloating , and feeling as if one has not completely passed the bowel movement . Complications from constipation may include hemorrhoids , anal fissure or fecal impaction . The normal frequency of bowel movements in adults is between three per day and three per week . Babies often have three to four bowel movements per day while young children typically have two to three per day .   Constipation has many causes . Common causes include slow movement of stool within the colon , irritable bowel syndrome , and pelvic floor disorders . Underlying associated diseases include hypothyroidism , diabetes , Parkinson 's disease , colon cancer , diverticulitis , and inflammatory bowel disease . Medications associated with constipation include opioids , certain antacids , calcium channel blockers , and anticholinergics . Of those taking opioids about 90 % develop constipation . Constipation is more concerning when there is weight loss or anemia , blood is present in the stool , there is a history of inflammatory bowel disease or colon cancer in a person 's family , or it is of new onset in someone who is older .   Treatment of constipation depends on the underlying cause and the duration that it has been present . Measures that may help include drinking enough fluids , eating more fiber , and exercise . If this is not effective , laxatives of the bulk forming agent , osmotic agent , stool softener , or lubricant type may be recommended . Stimulant laxatives are generally reserved for when other types are not effective . Other treatments may include biofeedback or in rare cases surgery .   In the general population rates of constipation are 2 -- 30 percent . Among elderly people living in a care home the rate of constipation is 50 -- 75 percent . People spend , in the United States , more than on medications for constipation a year .