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Constipation and fecal incontinence in the elderly.
1Gastroenterology Unit, Montefiore Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Gastroenterology Clinics of North America
|June 1, 1990
Summary
Managing constipation and fecal incontinence in older adults requires understanding bowel function and aging-related changes. This review covers prevalence, causes, and treatments for these common geriatric gastrointestinal issues.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Gastroenterology
- Colorectal Health
Background:
- Lower bowel dysfunction is prevalent in the elderly.
- Aging significantly alters colonic and anorectal physiology.
- Effective management necessitates understanding these changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review lower bowel dysfunction in the elderly.
- To detail age-related physiological changes in the colon and anorectum.
- To outline management strategies for constipation and fecal incontinence in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of geriatric colorectal function.
- Analysis of age-associated physiological changes.
- Synthesis of current management approaches for constipation and incontinence.
Main Results:
- Constipation and fecal incontinence are common in the elderly.
- Specific physiological changes occur with aging.
- Various causes and treatments exist for both conditions.
Conclusions:
- Understanding geriatric colorectal function is key for management.
- Delineating patient complaints and utilizing specialized studies are important.
- Comprehensive approaches are needed for constipation and fecal incontinence in the elderly.