Constipation: Infrequent (and frequently incomplete) bowel movements. The opposite of diarrhea, constipation is commonly caused by irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulosis, and medications (constipation can paradoxically be caused by overuse of laxatives). Colon cancer can narrow the colon and thereby cause constipation. The large bowel (colon) can be visualized by barium enema x-rays, sigmoidoscopy, and colonoscopy. Barring a condition such as cancer, high-fiber diets can frequently relieve the constipation.
Includes a definition of constipation and information on how it develops, how it is diagnosed, and how it can be treated. Also provides details on misconceptions about ...
Library > Literature & Language > Dictionary ( kÅn ' stÉ™-pÄ ' shÉ™n ) n. Difficult, incomplete, or infrequent evacuation of dry hardened feces from the bowels ...
Read details about constipation and the different treatments available for constipation including laxatives, dietary fiber, enemas, suppositories, drugs, and surgery.
WebMD looks at what causes constipation and what can be done to treat it.
Constipation — Comprehensive overview covers symptoms, treatment, prevention of this uncomfortable condition.