Constipation can happen for many reasons, such as when stool passes through the colon too slowly. The slower the food moves through the digestive tract, the more water the colon absorbs, and the harder feces becomes. Sometimes, constipation results from a blockage in the large or small intestine. In this case, a person needs urgent medical attention. At other times, it may be due to a lack of fiber or water. Read on to learn more about the symptoms and causes of constipation. This article also discusses laxatives and other remedies that may help relieve constipation.