A medical condition characterized by infrequent or difficult bowel movements, typically fewer than three per week. It can cause discomfort and bloating.
From Latin 'constipatio,' from 'constipare' meaning 'to press or crowd together.' The word combines 'con-' (together) and 'stipare' (to pack tightly), literally describing the packed condition of waste.
Despite being a common medical issue affecting millions, constipation remains one of the most under-discussed health topics. Ancient Egyptian medical papyri describe treatments for it, showing it's been troubling humans for millennia!
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