[Diagnosis and therapy of constipation]

Prevalence of chronic constipation is around 3% in youth, 8% in middle age, and 20% in the elderly, respectively. There are three etiologic groups: 1. Diet poor in fibre. Most constipated persons, however, do not eat less fibre than controls. 2. Organic diseases accompanied by constipation such as autonomous neuropathies (e.g. in diabetes), endocrine disorders, and neurologic diseases (e.g. Parkinsons disease). 3. Functional outlet obstruction. This may be due to disturbed sphincter function, internal rectal prolapse, or rectocele. The basic treatment of all forms of constipation consists in a diet rich in fibre. In selected cases of functional outlet obstruction, surgery may be successful. Otherwise, treatment with laxatives is justified.