Constipation
Constipation, which means that you have infrequent bowel movements, pass hard stools or strain when you do have bowel movements, is usually temporary. It can usually be managed with a change in your diet and drinking plenty of fluids. But, it can be a sign of a more serious condition. See your doctor if you have a change in bowel habits, intense pain, blood in your stool, rectal pain or thin pencil-like stools.
Recently Answered
- Q What causes pain on the left side of my stomach?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyMost common diagnosis: Constipation If you’re feeling full and bloated with dull, uncomfortable pain that can be felt in the lower left part of your abdomen (2-5:00 area), you’re likely feeling constipated. Between the hours of 2 and... Full Answer
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- Q What is functional abdominal pain syndrome?
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Dr. Bill Salt, GastroenterologyFunctional abdominal pain syndrome (FAPS), also called "chronic idiopathic abdominal pain," or "chronic functional abdominal pain," is continuous or nearly continuous abdominal pain that has been present for at least 6 months and which cannot be... Full Answer
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- Q What are the symptoms of constipation?
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Constipation is marked by less frequent or more difficult bowel movements than normal. If you pass less than three stools a week; pass dry, hard stools; have to strain during bowel movements; or feel as though you are having incomplete bowel movements;... Full Answer
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- Q What medications can cause constipation?
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Certain medications can interfere with bowel function. If you are taking one of the medications below and are dealing with constipation, check with your healthcare provider to see what you can do to get relief. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory... Full Answer
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- Q What medical conditions can cause constipation?
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Even though poor diet and a lack of exercise are two of the most common culprits when it comes to constipation, sometimes an underlying medical cause exists that may require attention. So if you are eating enough fiber and exercising regularly,... Full Answer
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- Q How do I know if my child is constipated?
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Constipation is a common question among parents. Initially, infants can stool anywhere from 12 times a day to once a week if they're breast-fed. So constipation is not necessarily determined by how often your stools are but by how comfortable... Full Answer
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- Q How do other conditions affect constipation?
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Constipation is indirectly caused by other conditions that require constipating drugs, like diuretics or opioids. Once these conditions are treated and you no longer require medication, your constipation should disappear. Other conditions like... Full Answer
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- Q How should I prepare for my appointment to diagnose acute constipation?
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If you have scheduled a doctor's appointment to be tested for acute constipation, there are some things you can do to prepare for your visit. Ask if there are any restrictions you should be aware of, such as fasting before your appointment. Have a list... Full Answer
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- Q Should I talk to my doctor about my acute constipation symptoms?
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If you experiencing symptoms related to acute constipation, such as the sudden onset of less frequent or more difficult bowel movements, or if you have had these symptoms for longer than two to three weeks, you should speak to your doctor. Although most... Full Answer
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- Q What do I need to know about caring for someone with acute constipation?
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Acute constipation can be caused by other disorders, which need to be treated in order for the symptoms of acute constipation to disappear. If you are caring for someone who develops acute constipation, encourage them to follow their doctor's treatment... Full Answer
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