Complications of chronic constipation

Chronic constipation is a common condition in Mexico, and its pathophysiology is multifactorial in most cases. When it is not adequately recognized and treated, it may lead to several complications that affect quality of life and, in some cases, may even become life-threatening. The most common complications include hemorrhoidal disease, anal fissure, fecal impaction, descending perineum syndrome, and rectocele. Other less frequent but clinically significant complications include solitary rectal ulcer, stercoral ulcer, rectoanal intussusception, rectal prolapse and colonic volvulus. The initial management of most of these complications, particularly in mild to moderate cases, is based on correcting the underlying constipation.