This may lead to blockage followed by constipation. Other causes of blockage include tumours and extended transit time, resulting in excessive removal of fluid from residual mass which then becomes hard and impacted. Painful passing of faeces as a result of ulcers, haemorrhoids or fissures may cause the patient to ignore the natural urge. In a similar way, ignoring the urge because of convenience or a holiday can also result in blockage. Drugs may cause constipation by reduction of peristalsis or decreasing muscle tone.
Diagnosis Ensure the patient has constipation by investigating the history of the symptoms.
Many patients present as having 'not been to the toilet' for many days while close questioning reveals a different picture. Symptom complex Constipation means that motion is less frequent than usual. The consistency, while not conclusive, is a useful aid to diagnosis, again looking for a significant change. Patients are frequently unclear on the use of the term constipation - it is a 'taboo' subject and is often hidden under euphemisms. Region Not applicable.