Constipation is defined as fewer than 3 bowel movements per week accompanied by straining and difficulty passing hard and dry stools.1,2 Constipation is among the most frequent gastrointestinal complaints in the United States and Western countries.1
The photo of large intestine is on the man’s body against gray background, People With Stomach ache problem concept, Male anatomy | Image Credit: endows – stock.adobe.com
Image Credit: Eddows – stock.adobe.com
The American College of Gastroenterology (ACOG) notes that an estimated 2.5 million physician visits annually are related to the evaluation and management of constipation and are correlated with significant direct and indirect costs, with one study reporting costs of more than $230 million annually.1-3
Although almost everyone occasionally experiences constipation, an estimated 8% to 12% of the US population has chronic constipation. Often perceived as merely a nuisance, constipation can, if left untreated, reduce productivity and energy levels; contribute to physical and psychological distress and affect overall health-related quality of life; and increase the risk of anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment.1,3 Constipation can affect anyone at any age, but the incidence is higher among older individuals, during the late stages of pregnancy, after childbirth, after surgery, and when taking certain medications.2 Studies have demonstrated that individuals 65 years and older are 5 times more likely than younger individuals to experience constipation, and women are 3 times more likely than men to experience constipation.2
The etiology of constipation is often multifaceted, and can be affected by diet (eg, diets low in carbohydrates, calories, or fiber), low intake of water, sedentary lifestyle, genetic predisposition, colonic motility, certain medical conditions, and medications.2,6 Medical issues that may increase the incidence of constipation include colorectal cancer, endocrine conditions (hypothyroidism, diabetes, hyperparathyroidism), neurological conditions (neuropathy, Parkinson disease, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy), eating disorders, and metabolic causes (hypercalcemia, hypokalemia). READ MORE