Constipation

Question 1

Define constipation

Answer 1

Generally difficult to define, but characterised by the passage of hard, dry stools less frequently than by the person’s normal pattern

Question 2

Treatment timescale for constipation

Answer 2

with treatment, should start to improve within 1 week (up to 2 weeks)

Question 3

symptoms of constipation

Answer 3

difficulty passing stools 
pain when defecating due to hard stools
wind
bloating
nausea
stomach cramps/abdominal discomfort 
Blood in stools - which may NOT be serious if not mixed in faeces suggesting anal fissure