Constipation

Constipation is diagnosed when the frequency of defaecation falls to less than once a week. Straining to defaecate can cause abdominal pain and distension, and, rarely, perforation of the bowel. Its causes include impaired colonic mobility (for example due to a neurological problem such as spinal cord injury), a low-fibre diet, inadequate fluid intake, and physical inactivity. Eating roughage, drinking su …