Constipation in old age

The prevalence of constipation increases with age. However, constipation is not a physiological consequence of normal ageing. Indeed, the aetiology of constipation in older people is often multifactorial with co-morbid diseases, impaired mobility, reduced dietary fibre intake and prescription medica...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:Baillière's best practice & research. Clinical gastroenterology 2009-12, Vol.23 (6), p.875-887
Main Authors: Gallagher, Paul, MB, MRCPI, O'Mahony, Denis, MD, FRCPI
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Abdomen
Adult
Age Factors
Aged
ageing
Aging
clinical assessment
Combined Modality Therapy
Constipation
Constipation - complications
Constipation - diagnosis
Constipation - physiopathology
Constipation - therapy
Defecation
Evidence-Based Medicine
faecal impaction
Fecal Impaction - etiology
Fecal Incontinence - etiology
Female
Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Health Services for the Aged
Humans
Irritable bowel syndrome
Laxatives
Male
Motility
Nursing
Older people
Predictive Value of Tests
Risk Factors
Surgery
Treatment Outcome
Citations: Items that this one cites
Items that cite this one
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:The prevalence of constipation increases with age. However, constipation is not a physiological consequence of normal ageing. Indeed, the aetiology of constipation in older people is often multifactorial with co-morbid diseases, impaired mobility, reduced dietary fibre intake and prescription medications contributing significantly to constipation in many instances. A detailed clinical history and physical examination including digital rectal examination is usually sufficient to uncover the causes of constipation in older people; more specialized tests of anorectal physiology and colonic transit are rarely required. The scientific evidence base from which to develop specific treatment recommendations for constipation in older people is, for the most part, slim. Constipation can be complicated by faecal impaction and incontinence, particularly in frail older people with reduced mobility and cognitive impairment; preventative strategies are important in those at risk.
ISSN:1521-6918
1532-1916
DOI:10.1016/j.bpg.2009.09.001