Chapter 7: Constipation

■ Bowel habits and frequency vary, but constipation is generally defined as fewer than three bowel movements per week with straining or difficult passage of hard, dry stools or small stools, or feeling as though bowel evacuation is incomplete and decreased stool frequency. ■ Older adult patients, women, those in late-term pregnancy, and those post-childbirth are populations most likely to experience constipation. ■ If left untreated, constipation can lead to development of anal fissures, hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse, fecal impaction, and other complications. ■ The goal of self-treatment is to relieve constipation while reestablishing normal bowel habits and preventing future episodes, and to establish dietary and exercise habits to prevent recurrence.