Constipation: Fast Facts
Reviewed By:
David Friedel, M.D., AGA
- When bowel movements are infrequent and associated with
symptoms, this is called constipation.
- Food product waste, or stool, may become hard and dry while in
the intestines, making it painful to pass and causing strain.
- Constipation may be intense and develop suddenly or develop
gradually and last for long periods of time.
- Most people have experienced constipation that corrects itself
with time, changes in diet or increased physical activity.
- In most cases constipation is temporary and not serious.
- Long-lasting or severe constipation may indicate a more serious
underlying disorder.
- You are not necessarily constipated just because you do not
have a bowel movement each day.
- The frequency of bowel movements can vary greatly from person
to person, from three times a week to three or more times a
day.
- People should pay attention to any changes to what is normal
for them.
- Other symptoms may appear with constipation, including
abdominal pain, cramping and nausea.
- Several conditions may develop as a result of constipation,
including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, fecal impaction, rectal
prolapse and diverticular disease.
- Some complications of constipation can also cause or contribute
to constipation.
- Constipation may be caused by a number of medical conditions,
lifestyle choices or medicines.
- Poor diet and a lack of exercise are the most common causes of
occasional constipation.
- Irritable bowel syndrome, which includes alternating episodes
of constipation and diarrhea, is one of the most common causes of
chronic constipation in the United States.
- Treating constipation will include diagnosis and treatment of
any underlying medical condition that is causing the problem.
- In cases of fecal impaction, a tap-water enema or manual
removal may be necessary.
- Regardless of the cause, changes in diet and exercise are often
recommended for people with constipation.
- Laxatives may be used in some cases.
- People are advised to consult with their doctor before taking
laxatives because these medications carry risks.
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