Constipation: meaning, definitions and examples
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constipation
[ kənˈstɪp.eɪ.ʃən ]
medical condition
Constipation is a common gastrointestinal condition characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty in passing stools. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including inadequate fiber intake, dehydration, lack of physical activity, and certain medications. When a person is constipated, they may experience discomfort, bloating, and straining during defecation. Chronic constipation can lead to more serious complications if not treated appropriately.
Synonyms
difficulty, irregularity, obstruction
Examples of usage
- The patient reported suffering from constipation for several weeks.
- Increased fiber intake is often recommended to alleviate constipation.
- She tried various remedies to relieve her constipation.
- Constipation can be a side effect of some medications.
Translations
Translations of the word "constipation" in other languages:
🇵🇹 constipação
🇮🇳 कब्ज़
🇩🇪 Verstopfung
🇮🇩 sembelit
🇺🇦 запор
🇵🇱 zaparcie
🇯🇵 便秘 (べんぴ)
🇫🇷 constipation
🇪🇸 estreñimiento
🇹🇷 kabızlık
🇰🇷 변비 (byeonbi)
🇸🇦 إمساك
🇨🇿 zácpa
🇸🇰 zápcha
🇨🇳 便秘 (biàn bì)
🇸🇮 zaprtje
🇮🇸 hömlun
🇰🇿 ішек ауруы
🇬🇪 გადატვირთვა
🇦🇿 qəbizlik
🇲🇽 estreñimiento
Word origin
The word 'constipation' originates from the Latin word 'constipatio', which means 'to press together'. It is derived from 'constipare', composed of 'con-' meaning 'together' and 'stupare', meaning 'to crowd or press'. The term has been used in the English language since the late Middle Ages, appearing in medical texts to describe the condition where bowel movements are infrequent and stools are hard to pass. Over centuries, the understanding of this condition has evolved, and the term has remained in use as it describes a common health issue that can affect individuals of all ages. The historical context emphasizes how lifestyle and dietary habits significantly influence gastrointestinal health.