Constipation history and symptoms
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Constipation On the Web |
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American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Constipation |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Eiman Ghaffarpasand, M.D. [2]
Overview
A positive history of straining, hard stools, sensation of incomplete evacuation, sensation of anorectal obstruction, use of manual maneuvers, and less than 3 defecations weekly is suggestive of constipation. The most common symptoms of constipation include infrequent bowel movements, abdominal bloating, necessity to strain, and anal pain. Less common symptoms of constipation include abdominal fullness, visible abdominal distention, incomplete evacuation, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and mass protrusion. Bristol Stool Form Scale and Patient Assessment Constipation-Quality of Life (PAC-QOL) are two questionnaire based on patients symptoms, help to diagnose constipation and quality of life in constipated patients.
History and Symptoms
- The hallmark of constipation is decreased number of bowel movements and hardened stool. A positive history of straining, hard stools, sensation of incomplete evacuation, sensation of anorectal obstruction, use of manual maneuvers, and less than 3 defecations weekly is suggestive of constipation. The most common symptoms of constipation include infrequent bowel movements, abdominal bloating, necessity to strain, and anal pain.
History
Patients with constipation may have a positive history of:[1]
- Straining
- Lumpy or hard stools
- Sensation of incomplete evacuation
- Sensation of anorectal obstruction or blockage
- Digital maneuvers
- Less than 3 defecations per week
Specific areas of focus when taking history of patients with constipation include:[2]
- Bowel habits description
- Onset of symptoms
- Duration of symptoms
- Severity of symptoms
- Precipitating events
- Laxative use: Type, number, and frequency
- Dietary history: Fiber and fluid intake
- Family history: Bowel function
 Common SymptomsCommon symptoms of constipation include:[4]
Bristol Stool Form Scale
Patient Assessment Constipation-Quality of Life (PAC-QOL)
Less Common SymptomsLess common symptoms of constipation include:[7]
References
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