Open AccessWhat is Chronic Constipation? Definition and Diagnosis
Author(s) -
James R. Gray
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
canadian journal of gastroenterology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1916-7237
pISSN - 0835-7900
DOI - 10.1155/2011/593056
Subject(s) - chronic constipation , constipation , complaint , medicine , intensive care medicine , disease , chronic disease , psychology , pathology , political science , law
Although chronic constipation is a common complaint, there are no ideal biological markers for its diagnosis. Diagnosis rests on individual patient perception or clinical criteria developed by expert consensus. Investigation options are multiple but often not necessary. When selected, investigations are directed at confirming the absence of a primary underlying disease, differentiating or defining an alteration in colonic motility or identifying an anorectal evacuation disorder.