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Constipation: understanding mechanisms and management.

Vanessa C Costilla1, Amy E Foxx-Orenstein

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic in Arizona, Scottsdale, AZ, USA.

Clinics in Geriatric Medicine
|November 26, 2013
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Constipation is a common gastrointestinal issue, especially in older adults. Management includes lifestyle changes, and specific treatments like biofeedback or medication are available for persistent cases.

Keywords:
Anorectal manometryChronic constipationConstipation testingDyssynergic defecationOutlet dysfunctionPelvic floor dysfunctionSlow transit constipation

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Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Digestive Health
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Constipation is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder, frequently diagnosed across various age groups.
  • The elderly population exhibits the highest prevalence of constipation symptoms.
  • Initial assessment typically involves a thorough medical history and anorectal examination.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline the diagnostic and management strategies for constipation.
  • To highlight self-management techniques and therapeutic interventions for constipation.
  • To inform healthcare providers on the evaluation of patients presenting with constipation.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current medical literature and clinical guidelines for constipation management.
  • Emphasis on clinical history and physical examination as primary diagnostic tools.
  • Discussion of non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment options.

Main Results:

  • Routine diagnostic testing is generally not recommended for uncomplicated constipation.
  • Lifestyle modifications such as increased exercise and dietary fiber are key self-management strategies.
  • Biofeedback therapy proves effective for constipation due to outlet obstruction defecation.
  • Pharmacological treatments offer a range of options for managing constipation.

Conclusions:

  • Constipation evaluation should be guided by clinical presentation, reserving extensive testing for alarm signs.
  • Personalized management, including lifestyle adjustments and targeted therapies, is crucial for effective constipation relief.
  • A multi-faceted approach combining self-care, behavioral therapy, and medication optimizes patient outcomes.