Abdominal pain in the backcountry

I just loaded a recent Adirondoc column on constipation in the backcountry.  While this may seem curious to many, it can be a real problem.  In my experience, constipation is the most common cause of abdominal discomfort during a trek of more than a few days.  There are many reports of individuals evacuated from treks for suspected appendicitis who needed nothing more than a good “clean out.” Although not mentioned in many lists of wilderness first aid supplies, stool softeners may come in very handy!