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Chronic Idiopathic Constipation Symptoms

Chronic idiopathic constipation, which may be also referred to as functional constipation, is a rare digestive disorder. The medical term idiopathic means that the cause of the condition is unknown. Chronic idiopathic constipation may be caused by various problems with hormones, nerves and the digestive muscles of the anus, rectum or colon. This condition may occur in anyone, but is most prevalent in women. Chronic idiopathic constipation is difficult to treat because it does not respond to traditional constipation treatment.

  1. Colon Muscle Problems

    • Chronic idiopathic constipation may occur as a result of slow-working muscles in the colon. Three types of chronic idiopathic constipation are colonic inertia, delayed transit and pelvic floor dysfunction. Both colonic inertia and delayed transit occur when the muscles in either part of or the entire colon work more slowly than normal.; pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when the muscles around the anus and rectum are unusually weak.

    Structural Abnormalities

    • Chronic idiopathic constipation may also be caused by structural abnormalities of the anus or rectum. Anal abnormalities are called anismus and rectal abnormalities are called anorectal dysfunction. These structural abnormalities affect the rectum and anus by preventing the muscles from relaxing properly so that stool can be excreted.

    Number of Bowel Movements

    • One symptom of chronic idiopathic constipation is having a reduced number of bowel movements. According to the NIH, an individual is considered to be suffering from constipation when he/she has less than three bowel movements per week.

    Stool Consistency

    • An individual who is constipated will have stools that are small in size; the stools are usually hard and dry as well. These stools will be very troublesome to eliminate and may cause pain as they pass through the rectum and anus.

    Related Symptoms

    • Individuals with chronic idiopathic constipation may also have bloating and feel like they have a full bowel.

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