Clinical Diagnosis · Digestive System · Easy

Constipation

Meaning: Infrequent, difficult or incomplete passing of stools, which are often hard and dry.

In practice: Opioid painkillers caused constipation, so a laxative was prescribed alongside them.

Quick check

Two questions on related clinical diagnosis words.

Which word means: A recurrent, intrusive and unwanted thought, image or urge that causes significant distress.

Which word means: Sudden, brief loss of muscle tone triggered by strong emotion such as laughter, while the person stays conscious.

One medical word a day, then a quick three-question quiz. Free on iPhone, or play in your browser on Android and computer.