CONSTIPATION, the condition of body. when the fae'ces are unduly retained, or there is difficulty in evacuation (see DI GESTIVE ORGANS ; and THERAPEUTICS). It may be due to consti tutional peculiarities, sedentary or irregular habits, improper diet, etc. The treatment varies with individual cases, according to the cause at work, laxatives, dieting, massage, tonics, etc., being pre scribed. In diagnosis it is essential to eliminate constipation due to intestinal obstruction, peritonitis and similar conditions.