ABSTRACT
Constipation is commonly seen in the Western population, where it has an estimated incidence of 2-27%. It is more prevalent in women than in men, and may be more common in the non-white population. Aetiology is dependent on the specific form of constipation in question. There are three main forms, namely functional constipation, defecatory disorders and slow-transit constipation. Constipation encompasses several concepts, including the passage of hard stool, infrequent bowel evacuation, and a sense of incomplete evacuation. Initial management of patients with constipation involves increased fluid intake. Fibre is useful for individuals with normal-transit or slow-transit constipation. Colonic malignancy may present with constipation. Colonoscopy allows the bowel lumen to be visualised and biopsies to be obtained for a histological diagnosis. Colonic transit time can be measured by using radio-opaque markers. Anorectal manometry is useful for assessment of anal sphincter pressures as well as rectal sensation.
