What is Constipation?

Description of the disease

Constipation is a condition in which a person experiences difficulty or delays in emptying the bowels. It can be temporary or chronic.

Classification

• Functional constipation
• Organic constipation
• Idiopathic constipation

Symptoms

Symptoms of constipation may include abdominal pain, incomplete bowel movements, fatigue, and bloating.

Causes

Causes of constipation may include lack of fiber in the diet, lack of physical activity, stress, and certain medications.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of constipation may involve taking a medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and colonoscopy.

Treatment

Treatment may include dietary changes, increased physical activity, medication, and bowel irrigation.

Prevention

Prevention of constipation includes a healthy diet, adequate physical activity, stress management, and staying hydrated.

Doctor

Constipation may be treated by a gastroenterologist or a general practitioner.