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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Constipation and Diarrhea?

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The main difference between constipation and diarrhea lies in the frequency and consistency of bowel movements.

Constipation is characterized by:

  • Fewer than three bowel movements per week
  • Hard, lumpy, or dry stools
  • Difficulty or pain when passing stools
  • Prolonged time in the bathroom for bowel movements
  • Incomplete bowel movements
  • Stomach pain or a feeling of fullness

Diarrhea is characterized by:

  • Loose, watery stools
  • Passing stools at least three times a day
  • Difficulty holding bowel movements
  • Stomach pain, nausea, abdominal cramping, and a strong urge to go to the bathroom
  • Vomiting and chills in some cases

Constipation is often caused by dehydration, a diet lacking in fiber, medical conditions, and medications. Diarrhea, on the other hand, can be caused by infections, food intolerances, chronic conditions like Crohn's disease, and more. Both constipation and diarrhea can be symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a common gastrointestinal disorder. If you experience frequent or prolonged episodes of constipation or diarrhea, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

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  • What is the Difference Between Constipation and Diarrhea?
  • Comparative Table: Constipation vs Diarrhea

    • Comparative Table: Constipation vs Diarrhea

    Here is a table comparing the differences between constipation and diarrhea:

    Feature Constipation Diarrhea
    Frequency of bowel movements Fewer than three bowel movements per week Loose, watery, and more frequent bowel movements
    Stool consistency Solid, dry stools Loose or watery stools
    Causes Blockages in the colon or rectum, problems with nerves around the colon and rectum, difficulty with muscles involved in elimination, and other conditions affecting hormones in the body, such as diabetes Infections, food intolerances, chronic conditions like Crohn's disease, and more
    Common symptoms Stomach pain, feeling of fullness, prolonged time in the bathroom for bowel movements, and incomplete bowel movements Inability to hold bowel movements, loose or watery stools, and often accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, or fever

    Constipation is characterized by fewer than three bowel movements per week, with solid and dry stools, and can be caused by various factors including blockages, nerve problems, and hormonal imbalances. On the other hand, diarrhea is characterized by loose, watery, and more frequent bowel movements, and can be caused by infections, food intolerances, and chronic conditions like Crohn's disease.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.