CONSTIPATION
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Constipation may be caused by the lack of adequate roughage or fluid in the diet, prolonged physical inactivity, certain drugs, or emotional disturbance. Sudden unexplained changes in bowel habits can be a symptom of a serious disorder (such as lower intestinal obstruction by a growth) and should receive medical attention. Most cases of constipation can be relieved by following a diet that includes adequate roughage and fluid and by establishing regular habits of evacuation. The continued use of laxatives is inadvisable. Daily bowel movements are not essential; many persons suffer from the harm caused by constant use of laxatives and enemas in an effort to establish the desired regularity.
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Signs and symptoms of chronic constipation include:
Make an appointment with your doctor if you experience unexplained and persistent changes in your bowel habits. Constipation most commonly occurs when waste or stool moves too slowly through the digestive tract or cannot be eliminated effectively from the rectum, which may cause the stool to become hard and dry. Chronic constipation has many possible causes. Blockages in the colon or rectum Blockages in the colon or rectum may slow or stop stool movement. Causes include:
risk of chronic constipation include:
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Info on this page was last updated and verified on May 10th, 2017 P.S.T.