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 How is acute constipation diagnosed?
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The onset of symptoms differs between acute and chronic constipation, but diagnosis is essentially the same. Your doctor will diagnose acute constipation with a physical examination and full medical history. This includes questions about your normal... Full Answer
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- Q Will acute constipation restrict my normal activities?
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If you have been diagnosed with acute constipation, you will most likely feel symptoms such as bloating and nausea, but you should not be restricted from your normal activities. In fact, the more consistent your schedule, diet, fluid intake, and exercise... Full Answer
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- Q Should I be tested for acute constipation?
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If you are suddenly experiencing less frequent or more difficult bowel movements, you may have developed acute constipation. This may be caused by insufficient fiber, fluids, and exercise, or a variety of other reasons. If left untreated, acute... Full Answer
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- Q Who is most at risk for acute constipation?
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Everyone is vulnerable to experiencing the discomfort of acute constipation from time to time. However, you are more at risk if you are not getting enough fiber in your diet, do not drink enough fluids, are inactive, or are taking certain medications.... Full Answer
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- Q How common is acute constipation?
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Reports show that almost 3 million Americans seek treatment for constipation each year. How many are diagnosed with acute constipation is unclear. Women and people ages 65 and older report constipation more frequently than others. However, constipation... Full Answer
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- Q What causes acute constipation?
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Acute constipation usually has natural causes, whereas chronic constipation is usually caused by disease or systemic disorders. In constipation, the colon absorbs too much water, which causes the stools to become hard and dry and difficult to pass. Some... Full Answer
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- Q Is acute constipation serious?
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Acute constipation is the sudden onset of less frequent or more difficult bowel movements. The good news is that it is usually a mild, temporary condition. However, if left untreated, acute constipation can cause complications. These include hemorrhoids,... Full Answer
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- Q Does acute constipation affect women differently than men?
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Acute constipation causes the same signs and symptoms in both women and men. However, studies show that more women are affected by acute constipation than men. Acute constipation is also common during and after pregnancy. Full Answer
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- Q What increases my risk for acute constipation?
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Anyone can develop acute constipation, but certain factors place you at a higher risk. These include the use of certain types of drugs such as antihistamines, narcotics and medications to relieve pain; exposure to a major illness; or disorders... Full Answer
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- Q How do I manage acute constipation on a daily basis?
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Primary causes of acute constipation are inadequate fiber, fluids, and exercise. Therefore, make sure you get enough fiber and fluids in your diet if you have acute constipation or are trying to prevent it. Experts recommend anywhere from 15g-35g of... Full Answer
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