CONSTIPATION AND GASTROPARESIS ( Gastrointestinal Problems )
CONSTIPATION Constipation is a symptom rather than a disease and is the most common digestive complaint in the United States. A standard set of criteria has been suggested that includes at least 2 of the following symptoms present for at least 3 months: Hard stools Straining at defecation Sensation of incomplete evacuation at least 25% of the time Two or fewer bowel movements per week EXAMINATION History is most relevant regarding the etiology of constipation. Understanding the type and degree of disability caused by the symptoms is important. Disability may include the following: Length of time attempting rectal evacuation Number of bowel movements per week Presence of chronic straining and/or hard stools The patient may be totally asymptomatic or complain of the following: Abdominal bloating Pain on defecation Rectal bleeding Spurious diarrh