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Adult constipation: a review and clinical guide
1Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106-4966, USA.
Journal of the National Medical Association
|March 26, 2003
Summary
Constipation can signal serious illness. This review guides healthcare providers in diagnosing and evaluating constipation, covering history, physical exams, and diagnostic testing for effective patient management.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
- Clinical Diagnostics
Background:
- Constipation is a prevalent medical complaint.
- It can be indicative of underlying serious conditions.
- A systematic approach is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of constipation's differential diagnosis and pathophysiology.
- To serve as a practical guide for the clinical work-up of constipation.
- To discuss the utility of various diagnostic tests, particularly for chronic idiopathic constipation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on constipation.
- Detailed outline of key historical, physical examination, and testing elements.
- Inclusion of a flow diagram to guide the diagnostic process.
Main Results:
- Identification of potential etiologies for constipation.
- Explanation of the pathophysiology of constipation.
- Evaluation of the value of different testing methods for chronic idiopathic constipation.
Conclusions:
- Awareness of potential causes aids in directing patient evaluation.
- A structured approach incorporating history, physical exam, and targeted testing is essential.
- The article provides a framework for managing constipation effectively.
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