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Fecal Microbiota Transplantation via Colonoscopy for Recurrent C. difficile Infection

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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:

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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.