Constipation |
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DESCRIPTION
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Constipation--difficulty with bowel movements--occurs when stools become too hard or cause pain.
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CAUSES
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Constipation can result if you don't eat enough fiber (fruits, vegetables, bran, whole-grain cereals) or fail to drink 6 to 8 glasses (soda-can size) of liquid daily. It also can develop when you go for a longer time than normal without a bowel movement. Other possible causes include lack of exercise, depression, and certain illnesses.
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SYMPTOMS
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You may feel the need for a bowel movement, but can't follow through--or feel as though you aren't moving your bowels as frequently or as much as usual. You may need to strain hard, or experience pain or bleeding.
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