constipation
Biology
(noun)
condition where the feces are hardened because of excess water removal in the colon
Physiology
Examples of constipation in the following topics:
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Defecation Reflex
- Constipation is uncomfortable, but laxatives are generally not the best way to treat it as it may be a signal that your diet is deficient in fibrous foods (eat more fruits and vegetables) and that you are not drinking enough water.
- If defecation is delayed for a prolonged period, the fecal matter may harden and autolyze, resulting in constipation.
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Elimination
- Diarrhea and constipation are some of the most common health concerns that affect digestion.
- Constipation is a condition where the feces are hardened because of excess water removal in the colon.
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Chagas Disease (American Trypanosomiasis)
- The acute phase will then enter remission and, over time, additional symptoms will develop that include: constipation, gastrointestinal issues, heart failure, abdominal pain and difficulties swallowing.
- However, the acute phase will enter remission and then, over time, additional symptoms will develop that include: constipation, gastrointestinal issues, heart failure, abdominal pain and difficulties swallowing.
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Dietary Fiber
- Constipation can occur if insufficient fluid is consumed with a high-fiber diet.
- Soluble fiber supplements may be beneficial for alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as diarrhea and/or constipation and abdominal discomfort.
- Low-fiber feces are dehydrated and hardened, making them difficult to evacuate, leading to constipation and possibly to the development of hemorrhoids or anal fissures.
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Diverticular Disease
- Risk factors for diverticulosis include increasing age, constipation. a diet that is low in dietary fiber, high intake of meat and red meat, connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome that may cause weakness in the colon wall, and hereditary or genetic predisposition.
- Plain abdominal x-ray may show signs of a thickened wall, ileus, constipation, small bowel obstruction, or free air in the case of perforation.
- A high-fiber diet and fiber supplements are advisable to prevent constipation.
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Aging and the Digestive System
- Large intestinal changes such as hemorrhoids and constipation may also occur.
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X-Ray Studies of the GI Tract
- Constipation is common but diarrhea will affect some patients.
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Ovarian Cancer
- Most women with ovarian cancer report one or more symptoms such as abdominal pain or discomfort, an abdominal mass, bloating, back pain, urinary urgency, constipation, tiredness and a range of other non-specific symptoms, as well as more specific symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding or involuntary weight loss.
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Gastrointestinal Reflex Pathways
- This can lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation.
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Endometriosis