What Is Chronic Idiopathic Constipation?

When a person has problems with their bowel movements and/or symptoms of constipation for more than six months, he may be diagnosed with chronic constipation. If a doctor cannot diagnose a medical cause for this condition and the patient doesn't respond to standard treatment, generally he will be classified as having chronic idiopathic constipation.

Significance

• Chronic idiopathic constipation causes abdominal discomfort and bloating, and can lead to other health problems that are difficult to pinpoint, since there is no known cause.

Types

• Two types of chronic idiopathic constipation are colonic inertia and delayed transit, both resulting from a decrease in muscle activity, either in the whole colon or just the lower part.

Considerations

• In order to avoid health problems like chronic constipation, the recommended intake of fiber for a person is 20 to 35 grams a day; however, the average person only consumes five to 20.

Misconceptions

• Chronic idiopathic constipation is commonly believed to be a health disorder, but it should really be referred to as a symptom, indicating an illness the body may be harboring.

Prevention/Solution

• A simple way to prevent chronic constipation is keeping a diet high in fiber, with vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Medications like Zelnorm and Cisapride will help a patient already diagnosed with idiopathic constipation by regulating bowel movements.