Almost everyone experiences constipation at some point in their live, but if you are constantly constipated without an identifiable reason, you may be suffering from Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC). The term idiopathic is used because it means that the cause is simply unknown. CIC causes difficult, infrequent, or incomplete bowel movements and it is estimated that about 14% of the population experiences chronic constipation.
Symptoms
CIC can include many symptoms, but the primary symptoms include:
- Infrequent bowel movements
- Straining
- Hard or lumpy stools
- Feeling of incomplete evacuation
- Feeling that something is blocking the stool from coming out
- Need to use fingers to try to get stool to come out (digital evacuation and vaginal splinting)
Many people who have CIC also report experiencing the following symptoms alongside the constipation:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Bloating
- Gas pain
There currently is no specific treatment for CIC, but Preferred Research Partners are currently enrolling individuals for a research study that tests the efficacy of a new medication for the treatment of CIC. If you or a loved one are suffering from CIC, consider a research study with us today!
Sources:
https://www.verywellhealth.com/chronic-idiopathic-constipation-1944861
