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Alternative names Return to top
Irregularity of bowels; Lack of regular bowel movementsDefinition Return to top
Constipation refers to infrequent or hard stools, or difficulty passing stools. Constipation may involve pain during the passage of a bowel movement, inability to pass a bowel movement after straining or pushing for more than 10 minutes, or no bowel movements after more than 3 days. Infants who are still exclusively breastfed may go 7 days without a stool.Considerations Return to top
Constipation is a relative term. Normal patterns of bowel elimination vary widely from person to person and you may not have a bowel movement every day. While some healthy people have consistently soft or near-runny stools, others have consistently firm stools, but no difficulty passing them.
When the stool is hard, infrequent, and requires significant effort to pass, you have constipation. The passage of large, wide stools may tear the mucosal membrane of the anus, especially in children. This can cause bleeding and the possibility of an anal fissure.
Common Causes Return to top
Constipation is most often caused by a low-fiber diet, lack of physical activity, not drinking enough water, or delay in going to the bathroom when you have the urge to defecate. Stress and travel can also contribute to constipation or other changes in bowel habits.
Other times, diseases of the bowel (such as irritable bowel syndrome), pregnancy, certain medical conditions (like an underactive thyroid or cystic fibrosis), mental health problems, neurological diseases, or medications may be the reason for your constipation. More serious causes, like colon cancer, are much less common.
Constipation in children often occurs if they hold back bowel movements when they aren't ready for toilet training or are afraid of it.
Home Care Return to top
Children and adults should get enough fiber in their diet. Vegetables, fresh fruits, dried fruits, and whole wheat, bran, or oatmeal cereals are excellent sources of fiber. To reap the benefits of fiber, drink plenty of fluids to help pass the stool.
For constipated infants:
Regular exercise is also important in establishing regular bowel movements. If you are confined to a wheelchair or bed, change position frequently and perform abdominal contraction exercises and leg raises. A physical therapist can recommend exercises appropriate for your physical abilities.
Stool softeners (such as those containing docusate sodium) may help. Additionally, bulk laxatives such as Psyllium may help add fluid and bulk to the stool. Suppositories or gentle laxatives, such as mineral oil or milk of magnesia, may establish regular bowel movements. Enemas or laxatives should be reserved for severe cases only. In addition, laxatives should not be used over a long period because you can become dependent on them.
DO NOT give laxatives or enemas to children without instruction from a doctor.
Call your health care provider if Return to top
Call your doctor if you have:Call if:
What to expect at your health care provider's office Return to top
Your doctor will perform a physical examination, which may include a rectal exam, and ask questions such as:Prevention Return to top
Avoiding constipation altogether is easier than treating it, but involves the same lifestyle measures:
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |