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Constipation and fecal incontinence in the elderly.
1Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology Section, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA. LRSMD@aol.com
Gastroenterology Clinics of North America
|July 4, 2001
Summary
Constipation and fecal incontinence are common in older adults. Differentiating age-related changes from disease is crucial for effective management and improved quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Gastroenterology
- Physiology
Background:
- Constipation and fecal incontinence are prevalent in the elderly population.
- Limited research exists to distinguish age-related physiological changes from disease-related pathologies affecting rectoanal function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of differentiating physiologic aging changes from pathologic disease processes in the elderly presenting with constipation or fecal incontinence.
- To emphasize the need for thorough evaluation and management of these symptoms in older patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on rectoanal function in aging.
- Clinical observation and case studies (implied).
Main Results:
- Physiologic changes associated with aging can predispose elderly individuals to constipation and fecal incontinence.
- These symptoms require careful assessment, similar to that in younger patients.
Conclusions:
- Effective management strategies can lead to significant symptom alleviation.
- Improved treatment outcomes can enhance the quality of life for elderly patients suffering from these conditions.
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