Constipation and Definition, Symptoms and Causes from the Mayo Clinic

The Mayo Clinic is a very reputable medical source.  We would like to offer the definition of constipation from them for your education and information. 

Definition

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Constipation is generally described as having fewer than three bowel movements a week.Chronic constipation is infrequent bowel movements or difficult passage of stools that persists for several weeks or longer.

Though occasional constipation is very common, some people experience chronic constipation that can interfere with their ability to go about their daily tasks. Chronic constipation may also cause excessive straining to have a bowel movement and other signs and symptoms.

Treatment for chronic constipation depends on the underlying cause. Though, in some cases, a cause for chronic constipation is never found.

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation/basics/definition/con-20032773

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Signs and symptoms of chronic constipation include:

Passing fewer than three stools a week

Having lumpy or hard stools

Straining to have bowel movements

Feeling as though there's a blockage in your rectum that prevents bowel movements

Feeling as though you can't completely empty the stool from your rectum

Needing help to empty your rectum, such as using your hands to press on your abdomen and using a finger to remove stool from your rectum

Constipation may be considered chronic if you've experienced two or more of these symptoms for the last three months.

When to see a doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor if you experience unexplained and persistent changes in your bowel habits.