Definition
The constipation usually means the passing stool is difficult or/and less frequent (fewer than once 3 days), possibly accompanying hard/dry quality or painful feeling.
It is common in the old ages and weak persons.
Causes
The constipation has many causes: less liquid intake, insufficient fiber foods, not enough exercises, delaying toilet time, stress, weak body, old age; some medicine; some medical diseases: bowel blockage, IBS, diabetes, hypo/hyperthyroidism, Parkinson’s disease, etc.
Presentation
The chronic constipation may include these symptoms:
1. Difficult passing stool
2. Dry and hard stool
3. Skin changes
4. Abdominal bloating or pain
5. Hemorrhoid
6. Worse hypertension or diabetes
7. Low energy
8. Emotion or mood change
9. Hypercholesterolemia
10. Malnutrition
11. Overweight or obesity
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is easy according to the presentation. But the causes have to be clarified.
The complicated medical problems need to be assessed.
The prognosis of constipation depends on the resolution of the causes and complications.
Treatment
The Western medicine is necessary to some constipation from the medical diseases.
The fiber diets, liquid intake and proper exercises are important.
Whereas these is not enough to some constipation, especially in the patients who are old ages, weak or emotional bodies. Chinese medicine has much advantage of treating these kinds of constipation.
The treatment of constipation will greatly decrease the risk of heart attack, stroke and cancers. Also, the life quality will improve without constipation.