Constipation is not a very serious condition in most cases. However, cases that have a sudden, acute onset and are severe in intensity must be closely watched. Long-standing cases of constipation may develop certain complications over a period of time due to repeated straining:

Prolapse of rectum

Fissure-in-ano (cracks in the anus due to passage of hard stools)

Hemorrhoids (Piles)

Impaction of stools in the rectum (requires stool to be removed manually)