Functional constipation
Functional Constipation
Functional constipation, also known as Chronic Idiopathic Constipation, is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by persistent, difficult, infrequent, or seemingly incomplete defecation. The term "functional" is used because the problem is not due to a structural or biochemical abnormality.
Pronunciation
Functional constipation is pronounced as /ˈfʌŋkʃənəl kɒnstɪˈpeɪʃən/.
Etymology
The term "functional constipation" is derived from the word "functional", which comes from the Latin word "functionem" meaning "performance, execution", and "constipation", which comes from the Latin word "constipare" meaning "to press or crowd together".
Symptoms
The symptoms of functional constipation can vary but often include:
- Straining during more than 25% of defecations
- Lumpy or hard stools in more than 25% of defecations
- Sensation of incomplete evacuation for more than 25% of defecations
- Sensation of anorectal obstruction/blockage for more than 25% of defecations
- Manual maneuvers to facilitate more than 25% of defecations
- Fewer than three defecations per week
Causes
Functional constipation can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Low fiber diet
- Lack of physical activity
- Medications
- Aging
- Changes in routine
- Overuse of laxatives
- Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
- Specific diseases or conditions, such as stroke, diabetes, or irritable bowel syndrome
Treatment
Treatment for functional constipation often includes lifestyle changes such as increasing dietary fiber, drinking more fluids, and increasing physical activity. In some cases, over-the-counter or prescription medications may be recommended.
Related Terms
- Bowel Movement
- Gastrointestinal Disorder
- Chronic Idiopathic Constipation
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Laxatives
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Functional constipation
- Wikipedia's article - Functional constipation
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