Introduction
Constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects up to 13% of the population worldwide (Lembo & Camilleri, 2003). It is characterized by difficulty passing stool, infrequent bowel movements, and an overall decrease in the frequency of bowel movements (Soykan et al., 2018). Constipation can also cause bloating, abdominal pain, and feelings of incomplete evacuation (Rao & Rao, 2012). The exact cause of constipation is not known, but it is believed to be related to an imbalance of hormones, low fiber intake, and dehydration (Soykan et al., 2018).
Definition
Constipation is defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week (Lembo & Camilleri, 2003). It is also characterized by hard, dry, and lumpy stools that are difficult to pass (Soykan et al., 2018). Additionally, constipation can be associated with feelings of incomplete evacuation and abdominal pain (Rao & Rao, 2012).
Causes
The exact cause of constipation is not known, but it is believed to be related to an imbalance of hormones (Lembo & Camilleri, 2003). Low fiber intake, dehydration, and lack of physical activity can also contribute to constipation (Soykan et al., 2018). Other potential causes of constipation include medications, changes in diet, and diseases such as diabetes and hypothyroidism (Rao & Rao, 2012).
Symptoms
The primary symptom of constipation is difficulty passing stool (Lembo & Camilleri, 2003). Other symptoms include infrequent bowel movements, hard, dry, and lumpy stools, bloating, abdominal pain, and feelings of incomplete evacuation (Soykan et al., 2018). Constipation can also cause fatigue, headache, and loss of appetite (Rao & Rao, 2012).
Treatment
The primary treatment for constipation is lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity and dietary fiber intake (Lembo & Camilleri, 2003). Additionally, medications such as laxatives and stool softeners can be used to help relieve constipation (Soykan et al., 2018). Other treatments for constipation include probiotics, herbal supplements, and enemas (Rao & Rao, 2012).
Conclusion
Constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder that is characterized by difficulty passing stool, infrequent bowel movements, and an overall decrease in the frequency of bowel movements. The exact cause of constipation is not known, but it is believed to be related to an imbalance of hormones, low fiber intake, and dehydration. Treatment for constipation includes lifestyle changes, medications, probiotics, herbal supplements, and enemas.
References
Lembo, A. & Camilleri, M. (2003). Chronic constipation. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 98(9), S2–S8.
Rao, S.S. & Rao, A. (2012). Constipation: Diagnosis and treatment. Gastroenterology Clinics of North America, 41(3), 515–543.
Soykan, I., Pareek, A., & Kellow, J. (2018). Constipation: Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management. Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology, 11(3), 195–210.