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\nWhat is constipation?
\nConstipation is when you have infrequent bowel movements and stool that may be hard, dry, and difficult to pass. You may also have stomach cramps, bloating, and nausea when you are constipated.
\nPrepare for your visit by making a list of questions to ask. Consider adding these questions to your list:
\nWhat causes constipation?
\nCancer treatments such as chemotherapy can cause constipation. Certain medicines (such as pain medicines), changes in diet, not drinking enough fluids, and being less active may also cause constipation.
\nWays to prevent or treat constipation
\nThere are steps you can take to prevent constipation. It is easier to prevent constipation than to treat its complications which may include fecal impaction or bowel obstruction.
\nTake these steps to prevent or treat constipation:
\n \nTalking with your health care team about constipation
\nPrepare for your visit by making a list of questions to ask. Consider adding these questions to your list:
\nNCI's Gastrointestinal Complications PDQ\u00ae summary discusses constipation and other related complications. Learn more, including ways to manage these problems, in the patient or health professional version.
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