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Chronic Constipation.

Darren M Brenner1, Marmy Shah2

  • 1Division of Gastroenterology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 675 North Saint Clair Avenue, Suite 17-250, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.

Gastroenterology Clinics of North America
|June 5, 2016
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Chronic constipation affects 20% of people, impacting quality of life. Diagnosis uses standard criteria, with treatment often starting with over-the-counter laxatives despite available prescription options.

Keywords:
Anorectal manometryConstipationDiagnostic testingLaxativesMotilityPathophysiologySecretagogues

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Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Chronic constipation is a prevalent condition affecting 20% of the population.
  • It significantly diminishes an individual's quality of life.
  • Diagnosis relies on established criteria, with etiology assessment crucial in the absence of alarm symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline diagnostic approaches for chronic constipation.
  • To review the range of available laxative therapies.
  • To understand current physician preferences in treatment selection.

Main Methods:

  • Review of diagnostic criteria for chronic constipation.
  • Assessment of etiological factors through history and physical examination.
  • Consideration of specialized diagnostic testing post-laxative failure.

Main Results:

  • Standard diagnostic criteria are available for chronic constipation.
  • History and physical examination are primary tools for determining etiology.
  • Specialized testing may be indicated if initial laxative treatments fail.
  • Physicians often favor over-the-counter laxatives over prescription options.

Conclusions:

  • Chronic constipation requires a systematic diagnostic approach.
  • Etiology should be investigated, especially when alarm signs are absent.
  • Therapeutic choices involve various laxative classes, with a noted preference for OTC options.