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How is constipation diagnosed or evaluated?
The patient history and physical examination are key to the correct diagnosis and treatment of patients with constipation. Acute constipation is defined as an unremitting change in bowel habits for less than 3 months. Acute constipation is often caused by a change in one of the general factors that lead to constipation and is easier to treat. For example, a single dietary change may lead to constipation. Changing back to the original diet may relieve the constipation.
Chronic constipation represents a change in bowel patterns for longer than 3 months. Chronic constipation occurs more frequently among the elderly and tends to be the end result of several general factors that lead to constipation. Laxative abuse (the overuse of laxatives) is an important consideration among patients with chronic constipation.
The doctor will assess fluid and fiber intake and physical activity levels and note any changes that might be associated with chronic or acute constipation.
Common questions the doctor will ask in order to make the diagnosis of constipation include:
- For many days has the patient been constipated?
- What is the age of the patient?
- Before the constipation, how many bowel movements did the patient have each day?
- Is there any abdominal pain? Cramping?
- Has the patient had blood in the stools?
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