| Abstract: |
This brochure from the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) provides an overview of constipation, defined as the infrequent and difficult passage of stool. The brochure reviews common misconceptions about constipation and bowel habits and outlines the causes of constipation, which can include poor diet, imaginary constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), poor bowel habits, laxative abuse, travel, hormonal disturbances, pregnancy, fissures and hemorrhoids, specific diseases, loss of body salts, mechanical compression, nerve damage, medications, and colonic motility disorders. The brochure describes constipation in children, constipation in older adults, when to seek medical attention for constipation, diagnostic tests that may be used to confirm the condition, and treatment options. One section reviews the different types of laxatives, including bulk-forming, stimulants, osmotics, stool softeners, lubricants, saline laxatives, and chloride channel activators. A final section summarizes the basic information presented in the brochure. One illustration presents the organs of the digestive system labeled in a simple line drawing. Readers are referred to the AGA website at www.gastro.org/patient for more information about digestive health and to find a local AGA member physician. 2 figures. |