Am J Gastroenterol. 2005; 100(1):232-42 (ISSN: 0002-9270)

Müller-Lissner SA; Kamm MA; Scarpignato C; Wald A
Abteilung Innere Medizin, Park-Klinik Weissensee, Schönstrasse 80, 13086 Berlin, Germany.

There are many strongly held beliefs about constipation that are not evidence based. The purpose of this review is to address these beliefs concerning various aspects of constipation. There is no evidence to support the theory that diseases may arise via "autointoxication," whereby poisonous substances from stools within the colon are absorbed. Dolichocolon, defined as an elongated colon, should not be seen as a cause of constipation.

The precise location of pain is one of the main reasons for proper diagnosis of patient’s conditions. The abdominal cavity has several organs; one on top the other in the lower abdomen, on the right or left side, so knowing their location can help to pre-determine what hurts.

Also, the nature of the pain may indicate the cause. Knowing characteristics of various diseases, physician concludes what could be the reason for dull, circular, acute pain, which started suddenly (such as gastric ulcer rapture of abdominal aorta,) or pain which increase gradually and slowly. The pain may have other specific characteristics, for example, it may radiate into the right shoulder suggesting bile stones, pain reaching the flank as spikes in the kidney or circular as chronic pancreatitis.

Brief description of the digestive system

Digestive system consists of several organs responsible for the break down and elimination of chemical components of foods: Stomach, Pancreas, Liver, Gallbladder, Small Intestine, and Large Intestine.

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Symptoms such as bloating, gas, chronic constipation, and diarrhea, are mostly attributed to poor digestion.

IBS (IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME), is a functional disorder characterized by abdominal pain and alteration in bowel habits. "Up to 20% of the adult population has symptoms compatible with the diagnosis, but most never seek medical attention. It is a common problem presenting to both the gastroenterologist and the primary physician." (Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment, 37th Edition, chapter 14, p602).

Some of the reasons causing digestive disorders are:

Activity of the gastrointestinal tracts can vary widely. Established criteria identify chronic constipation when infrequent bowel movements are three times or fewer per week. However, people who eliminate stool no more than 3 times a week - suffer from chronic constipation. Those, who have to use a lot of energy to evacuate, should start to exercise and take natural supplements which regulate movement without damaging the flora.

Constipation is one of the most common complaints of many people, especially the elderly. Problems associated with emptying the colon are encountered by large percentage of people. In most cases, it is due to improper lifestyle and health conditions.