Diseases

Constipation

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Constipation is an acute or chronic condition in which bowel movements occur less often than usual or consist of hard, dry stools that are painful or difficult to pass. Bowel habits vary, but an adult who has not had a bowel movement in three days or a child who has not had a bowel movement in four days is considered constipated.

Risk factors for constipation include –
*lowsocio-economic status*low physical activity*depression*stressful life events*physical and sexual abuse*medications such as analgesics, antihistamines, antipsychotics, antihypertensives, antacids, calcium and iron supplements, and even oral contraceptives.