Constipation in Adults

For people in your age group, it is possible that constipation is related to fluid buildup (congestion) within the wall of the bowel. When this occurs, it is usually caused by congestive heart failure.

Symptoms that would be suggestive for heart failure include:

• Swelling of your ankles

• Shortness of breath with minimal exercise

• Breathing difficulty when you lie flat

• Awakenings at night due to shortness of breath

Have you been diagnosed with heart failure, or do you have any of these symptoms?

Yes, I may have heart failure symptoms.

No, there is no concern for heart failure in my case.