Constipation in critically ill adults

Table 3 Possible complications associated with constipation in the intensive care unit

Category	Possible complications
Respiratory	Reduced lung compliance
	Prolonged mechanical ventilation and ICU length of stay
	Risk of VAP
	Pulmonary aspiration
Infectious	Bacterial overgrowth and translocation
	Intestinal microbiota disruption (dysbiosis)
	Systemic inflammation triggered by endotoxins and bacterial translocation
	Nosocomial infection and sepsis
Gastrointestinal	Abdominal distension and discomfort
	Elevated intra-abdominal pressure
	Vomiting
	Delayed gastric emptying
	Poor tolerance of enteral nutrition
	Risk of intestinal pseudo-obstruction or perforation
Neurocognitive and psychological	Risk of delirium
	Psychological distress due to constipation-related pain or discomfort
	Reduced patient comfort and well-being

ICU: Intensive care unit; VAP: Ventilator-associated pneumonia.