Constipation. ENGLISH

The prevalence of the problem is highly variable, ranging from 2 to 28%.1 This high level of variability is due to the 

many different definitions of constipation. Doctors tend to define constipation based on the number of bowel

movements per week; however, patients may complain of constipation based on a myriad of other symptoms, including degree of straining during defecation or consistency of the stool. Multiple attempts have been made to define constipation to be better able to characterize and study the disease. The Rome criteria, initially introduced in 1988 and modified twice since then, became the research standard definition for constipation.
 The most updated consensus definition of functional constipation, the Rome III criteria, was published in April 2006  

This take into account the need to strain or perform manual maneuvers, anorectal sensation, consistency and number

of stools, and the need for laxative use. Although these criteria provide a limited definition of constipation, they serve as a standard, which can be used to compare across studies.
 

The etiology of constipation is as variable as its symptomatology. Constipation can be classified as primary or secondary, and can be further divided between slow transit constipation and pelvic floor dysfunction.
 

There are many physiologic variables that must fall into place to successfully defecate, and any number of factors can interfere with this process. A large portion of patients will resolve their constipation with an increase in the intake of water and dietary fiber.