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What causes constipation? And how is constipation medically defined? Get the basics on this common gastrointestinal complaint here....
Constipation is defined differently by different people. Learn to identify signs and symptoms of constipation and know when to ask for medical help....
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Q: Constipation
asked by: DoctorQuestion on May 3rd, 2008
i have stomach bloating and can't figure out why. i've tried several things but can't find the cause of this and nothing and nobody seems to help. there is no pain or any other symtoms except that i can't get rid of the waste daily and it builds up.. and causes bloating??? i've tried miralax, mannatech colon cleanse, fiber shakes, ect. ect. somtimes i can drink some strong coffee and get some results. i need to figure out the cause of this. my stomach just bloats and i look pregnant and don't know why. i even had a colonoscopy and it was fine. PLEASE HELP ME. i'm healthy and go to the gym, don't smoke or drink. i've had this for over 2 years. i also tried dr. detox from gnc and not much results from that either. help.


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Dr. Nikola Gjuzelov , MD
replied on May 12th, 2008
Stomach, Ulcers, Gastric Bypass, and Colon Disorders Answer A
Constipation is defined as lack of a bowel movement in more than 72 hours. About 1-6% of healthy adults suffer from constipation. Constipation can be due to many reasons generally subdivided into several groups:
I. LIFE STYLE:
1. Lack of physical activity;
2. Not enough fiber intake with the food;
3. Not enough liquid intake;
4. Ignoring of the normal urges for defecation.

II. MEDICINES: verapamil, opiate painkillers, neuroleptics, antidepressants, drugs for Parkinson, iron supplements, antacids, long term used laxatives, diuretics etc.;

III. ORGANIC REASONS: anal fissure, intestinal stenosis, tumors, endocrine disorders (hypothyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, Addison’s disease, panhypopituitarism), diabetic neuropathy, neurological disorders (Parkinson, multiple sclerosis, cerebrovascular disorders, spine cord injury), and

IV. PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS: anorexia nervosa, depression, etc.

The most important thing in evaluating constipation is to exclude organic reasons (tumor, ileus) for constipation.It seems likely that you have already made all the necessary medical tests (colonoscopy, intestinal passage, manual rectal examination, occult blood test, hormonal analyses etc.) in order to exclude organic constipation. Long term constipation is usually not organic.
Chronic constipation is treated with:
1. Life style changes: increased intake of fibers and liquid, increased physical activity;
2. Abortion of stimulating laxatives;
3. Avoiding medicines that cause constipation;
4. Using laxatives that increase the stool volume: osmotic laxatives, lactulose, magnesium milk, natrium picosulfate.
5. Enemas.

You may want to consult a gastroenterologist about your problem.





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