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Association of constipation with neurologic diseases
J F Johanson1, A Sonnenberg, T R Koch
1Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53295.
Digestive Diseases and Sciences
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Constipation is frequently linked to neurologic diseases, particularly those affecting the central nervous system. This suggests that impaired neural control of the colon may be a key factor in developing constipation.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Constipation is a common condition with multifactorial causes.
- Understanding the etiologic influences is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between constipation and other diseases.
- To identify potential etiologic factors contributing to constipation development.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 8.8 million Medicare patient records from 1987.
- Comparison of International Classification of Diseases (ICD) code frequencies between constipated and non-constipated patients.
Main Results:
- Strongest associations found between constipation and neurologic diseases, especially those involving central nervous system damage.
- Spinal disorders associated with constipation also showed evidence of neuronal damage.
- Confounding factors like immobility and pain had minimal influence.
Conclusions:
- Disruption of neural modulation of colonic motility is strongly implicated in constipation.
- Neurologic dysfunction is a significant factor in the etiology of constipation.