Information on Chronic Constipation

There are two types of chronic constipation: functional and secondary constipation. Functional chronic constipation is not caused by an underlying medical condition while secondary chronic constipation is, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Treatment

Medications available for chronic constipation include laxatives, enemas and suppositories. Less than 1 percent of patients with chronic constipation need surgery, reports the Mayo Clinic.

Symptoms

According to the Mayo Clinic, people who have chronic constipation experience painful bowel movements, infrequent bowel movements and often strain when trying to pass bowel movements.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for chronic constipation include aging, a sedentary lifestyle, being confined to a bed, eating low-fiber diets, not getting enough fluids, taking medications such as sedatives and narcotics, and undergoing chemotherapy, reports the Mayo Clinic.

Complications

Complications associated with chronic constipation include developing hemorrhoids, fecal impaction, rectal prolapse and developing lazy bowel syndrome, cites the Mayo Clinic.

Diagnosis

Causes of constipation can be diagnosed by scope tests, scintigraphy tests, anorectal testing, colon motility tests and hydrogen breath tests, according to the Mayo Clinic.

References

• Mayo Clinic