What is constipation considered to be a medical problem?
There is a wide variety of bowel action that can be regarded as normal. If a bowel action is occurring at less than three day intervals this is regarded as constipation. There should be no need to strain to empty the bowel - straining suggests constipation. Chronic constipation may be associated with haemorrhoids (piles) and prolapse of the rectum. The hard stools may tear the lining of the anus resulting in bleeding and fissures (splits).
What causes constipation?
A number of factors can result in constipation including:
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