How do I know whether my constipation is simple or serious?

More than 80 per cent people have simple constipation. Your doctor is the best person to judge the causes and the type of your constipation.  Some of the most common questions asked by your doctor will be:
•           What are your normal habits for passing stools in terms of frequency, volume and timings?
•           What is the duration of constipation?
•           What is the consistency of the stools? Do you need to strain a lot while passing stools? Do you have a feeling of either fullness in the abdomen or incomplete evacuation? 
•           Have you ever taken medicines for constipation? If yes, for how long and which medicines? Do these medicines relieve constipation?
•           Do you have any other complaints in the abdomen?
•           Are you normally stressed?
•           Do you take medicines regularly? If yes, how often and which medicines?
•           Do you have any other health problems?
After taking a detailed history, the doctor will examine you to find out if you have any other diseases. He/she will examine your anus for any deformity or injury around it. The doctor may also do a manual examination of the rectum to find out if there are abnormalities of the rectum. Your doctor may suggest some laboratory investigations, if necessary.