Constipation (Constipation is generally defined as stool that)
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
Constipation is defined as bowel movements occurring less than three times per week, though some patients may evacuate only once weekly without discomfort. Common causes include insufficient fluid intake, low-fiber diet, stress, certain medications, and prolonged laxative use.
Encyclopedia article (1928–1936)
Constipation is generally defined as stool that occurs less than 3 times per week, although there are cases when patients evacuate their bowels only once a week without complaints about their condition.
Causes
The most common causes of constipation:
-insufficient intake of fluids
-improper diet with small amounts of bulk substances that stimulate intestinal activity
-stress, psychological causes
-use of medications that promote constipation: certain antidepressants, strong analgesics, acid-binding medications with aluminum, iron-containing preparations
-prolonged use (abuse) of certain laxatives
Symptoms
The stool becomes hard, and evacuation is associated with great strain, sometimes painful. Additionally, bloating and spasms in the abdomen occur. If there are alternating constipation and diarrhea, there is suspicion of a serious intestinal disease (intestinal cancer), so a doctor's consultation is needed. Blood impurities in the stool during constipation are often caused by hemorrhoids, but are also characteristic of intestinal ulcers and cancer, so detailed examination is required here.
Therapy
General measures:
-increased intake of fluids (more than 2 liters per day)
-regular exercise
-a menu rich in fiber and bulk substances to stimulate intestinal activity (vegetables, fruits, whole grain products)
-avoiding stress
-determining whether constipation is a side effect of the medications being taken
Laxatives:
Laxatives should be taken for a limited time so that the intestine does not become accustomed to them, which can lead to subsequent recurrences of constipation. Bulk-forming substances (flax seeds or wheat bran) absorb water and increase the volume of stool, which stimulates the intestine, but for them to work, a large amount of water must be consumed simultaneously. Osmotic laxatives bind water in the intestines, their effect subsides after a few hours, and a large amount of liquid must also be taken orally. Lubricants (suppositories, enemas) help soften the stool and make it less compressible.
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Cite this page
“Constipation (Constipation is generally defined as stool that).” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/constipation-2/