Diagnosis of Chronic Constipation
Symptoms of Constipation
Physical Examination
Palpation of the left side of abdomen, especially the lower part (in children in lower-mid part) may reveal lumps of stool. In children inspection of anal area may reveal skin tears – anal fissure or fistulae, hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse. Causes of constipation in children. Digital rectal examination gives an impression of the anal sphincter tone, anal stenosis and presence of feces in the rectum. In women posterior vaginal wall palpation may give evidence of internal rectal prolapse or rectocele.
Laboratory Findings
CBC – Complete blood count (low red cells may indicate occult bleeding, raised leukocytes may show inflammation). Blood glucose is increased in diabetes, electrolyte levels may be deranged in renal disease. Fecal occult blood test may be done in chronically obstipated patients after age of 50 (eventual colon cancer).
