Constipation
Infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often caused by diet, dehydration, medications, or underlying conditions.
Also known as: chronic constipation, obstipation.
Category: Gastrointestinal
Drugs labeled for Constipation
8 medication ingredients list an association with constipation in current FDA labeling.
Symptoms associated with Constipation
The following symptoms have been associated with Constipation in medical literature. Not everyone experiences the same symptoms.
Abdominal distention
Distention of the abdomen....
Abdominal pain
An unpleasant sensation characterized by physical discomfort (such as pricking, throbbing, or aching) and perc...
Bloating
A feeling of fullness, pressure, or swelling in the abdomen, often related to gas, digestion, or fluid retenti...
Chronic constipation
Constipation for longer than three months with fewer than 3 bowel movements per week, straining, lumpy or hard...
Straining with Bowel Movements
The need to strain excessively to pass stool, which can be a sign of constipation....
Tests used to investigate Constipation
Healthcare providers may order these tests when evaluating Constipation. Test selection is a clinical decision made by a qualified professional.
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Measures 14 substances in the blood to assess kidney and liver function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar ...
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
Screens for thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism....
Conditions with overlapping symptoms
These conditions share symptoms with Constipation, which is why a clinical evaluation is important.
Acute intermittent porphyria
Acute intermittent porphyria is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs....
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
A common functional disorder of the large intestine causing cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarr...
Idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome
Idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and ...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
A common functional disorder of the gut causing abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits such as ...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation Predominant
A subtype of IBS characterized by constipation with abdominal pain and bloating....
Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Diarrhea Predominant
A subtype of IBS characterized by frequent diarrhea with abdominal pain and urgency....
When to seek emergency care
Seek emergency care for constipation with severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or inability to pass gas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Constipation?
Constipation is a health condition described in medical literature. Infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often caused by diet, dehydration, medications, or underlying conditions.
What are the symptoms of Constipation?
Constipation is associated with 5 symptoms in the medical literature we index, including Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Bloating, Chronic constipation, Straining with Bowel Movements. Symptoms vary widely between individuals.
How is Constipation diagnosed or investigated?
A healthcare provider may use a combination of medical history, physical examination, and tests. Common tests associated with Constipation include Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP), Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). This information is educational, not a diagnosis.
Is SymptomDatabase.com diagnosing me?
No. SymptomDatabase.com does not provide diagnosis. If you are concerned you may have Constipation, please discuss your symptoms with a qualified healthcare provider.