CONSTIPATION: EVIDENCE: With the white blood cell count normal and no fever the chances of having surgery greatly decrease. You have evidence of constipation. Constipation is a common cause of abdominal pain, but sometimes causes no symptoms at all. Causes of constipation include certain medications, dehydration, diets, and low-fiber intake. Rarely, it can be a symptom of underlying disease (the physician has evaluated you for this). THERAPY FOR CONSTIPATION: In the future, constipation should be avoided by eating a diet high in fiber, fruits, and vegetables. Drink plenty of liquids. Stool softeners are often recommended. If possible, avoid constipating medicines like narcotics. Chronic use of laxatives or enemas is not a good idea. Your bowel may become dependant on them. IF PROBLEMS: You should call the doctor or return for re-evaluation if you pass blood in the stool, or if you develop fever or increasing abdominal pain. A good trial of prune juice is always a good start especially in children.