What is the best choice for the cause of her constipation?

Question

A 42-year-old florist comes to your office, complaining of chronic constipation for the last 6 months. She has had no nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea and no abdominal pain or cramping. She denies any recent illnesses or injuries. She denies any changes to her diet or exercise program. She is on no new medications. During the review of systems you note that she has felt fatigued, had some weight gain, has irregular periods, and has cold intolerance. Her past medical history is significant for one vaginal delivery and two cesarean sections. She is married, has three children, and owns a flower shop. She denies tobacco, alcohol, or drug use. Her mother has type 2 diabetes and her father has coronary artery disease. There is no family history of cancers. On examination she appears her stated age. Her vital signs are normal. Her head, eyes, ears, nose, throat, and neck examinations are normal. Her cardiac, lung, and abdominal examinations are also unremarkable. Her rectal occult blood test is negative. Her deep tendon reflexes are delayed in response to a blow with the hammer, especially the Achilles tendons.

A) Large bowel obstruction
B) Irritable bowel syndrome
C) Rectal cancer
D) Hypothyroidism

Answer 1

D) Hypothyroidism

Many metabolic conditions can interfere with bowel motility. In this case the patient has many symptoms of hypothyroidism, including cold intolerance, weight gain, fatigue, constipation, and irregular menstrual cycles. On examination, thyromegaly and delayed reflexes can help to make the diagnosis. Medication will usually correct these symptoms.