Causes of Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC)
By The MNT Editorial Team
Last updated Tue 5 January 2016
What is constipation?
Constipation can be defined as a decrease in the frequency of passing formed stools. The condition also may be characterized by stools that are hard and difficult to pass.
What causes constipation?
Constipation may be the result of inadequate fiber intake, inadequate fluid intake, or a lack of physical activity. It may also be caused by disease or ailments such as diabetes, intestinal obstruction, spinal cord compression, excessive calcium levels, a lack of potassium, or kidney problems. A third cause of constipation is pharmacologically based. That is, constipation is a side-effect of drugs that are used to treat various diseases and pain, such as the opioids given to cancer patients.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/info/oic/causes-of-opioid-induced-constipation.php
