• Constipation is the symptom of infrequent bowel movements.
• Constipation is usually less then three bowel movements in a week, hard stools, excessive straining or the sensation of incomplete evacuation of the colon.
• Constipation is common and up to 15% of the adult population seek medical help for constipation.
• It normally takes 35 hours for bowel contents to pass the gastrointestinal track and greater than 72 hours is abnormal.
This document is not intended to substitute for professional medical
advice. Do not use this information to diagnose or develop a treatment
plan for a health problem or disease without consulting your physician.
Updated March 1st 2009