What does the term constipation refer to?

The term constipation specifically refers to the difficulty in passing stools, often leading to the expulsion of hard, dry feces. This condition typically involves infrequent bowel movements or the sensation of incomplete evacuation. Recognizing that constipation is directly related to the hardness and consistency of the stool is key in understanding gastrointestinal health. The focus on hard stool highlights a common symptom of constipation and helps differentiate it from other health issues. In contrast, the other options address completely different bodily functions or symptoms not related to bowel movements, such as respiratory issues, urinary problems, and gastrointestinal disturbances, which do not encompass the specific characteristics of constipation.