Constipation is determined in the colon (large intestine), which is responsible for packaging and eliminating stool.
As food moves through the colon, it absorbs water while forming stool. Muscle contractions (squeezing motions) in the colon push the stool toward the rectum (the lower 8 to 10 inches of the large intestine). By the time stool reaches the rectum, it is...
Americans are notorious for spending outrageous amounts on laxatives and other remedies in their battle against chronic constipation. ... Read more »
I keep hearing that women who are pregnant should avoid fish that are high in mercury. Are there specific types of fish that pregnant women... Read more »
Constipation and infant gastroesophageal reflux sometimes occur together, effectively doubling the misery since both constipation and... Read more »
Constipation is the most common gastrointestinal complaint in the United States, affecting more than 4 million Americans and accounting for... Read more »
To be honest, I do sometimes. Only a few times has it been so dramatic that I thought I might not be able to stand the consequences. I... Read more »
Source: Harvard Decision Guide
What Is It? Normally, people have bowel movements at fairly regular intervals, and stool passes out of the body easily without much straining or... Read more »
Seriously ill patients who take opioid pain medications often face constipation. But the drug methylnaltrexone appears to provide relief from this... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Constipation is most often defined as having a bowel movement less than 3 times per week. It usually is associated with hard stools or difficulty... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) refers to a disorder that involves abdominal pain and cramping, as well as changes in bowel movements. It is not the... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
and ComplicationsRaynaud's PhenomenonRaynaud's phenomenon is often the first sign of the scleroderma disease process. With this condition, small... Read more »