Definition of Constipation
Constipation (from Latin constipare = to press together) is evacuating the bowel with difficulty, or less than three times a week. There is no need to have a bowel movement every day if someone does not feel the need for it.
Symptoms of Constipation
One or more of the following symptoms may be present in constipation:
- straining or pain at passing the stool, feeling of incomplete bowel emptying;
- hard and dry stool;
- bloating – excessive gas in the gut;
- coated tongue, bad taste, offensive breath, headache, fatigue, and loss of appetite and weight may follow.
Causes of Constipation
Constipation in adults is mostly a consequence of inappropriate food or stress. In infants it is almost always caused by congenital disorders. In children psychological factors are important. In old people inactivity is the main cause. Constipation may also be caused by a disease, medications or hospitalization.
