Document Detail


Constipation and fecal incontinence in the elderly population.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  8538239     Owner:  NLM     Status:  MEDLINE    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
OBJECTIVE: To describe the assessment and management of constipation and fecal incontinence in elderly patients. DESIGN: We reviewed pertinent publications in the recent medical literature and outlined effective management strategies for constipation and fecal incontinence in the geriatric population. RESULTS: Constipation can be classified into two syndromes--functional constipation and rectosigmoid outlet delay. Evaluation consists of elicitation of a detailed history, directed physical examination, and selected laboratory tests. Management involves nonpharmacologic (such as exercise and fiber) and pharmacologic measures. Fecal incontinence in elderly patients can be due to stool impaction, medications, dementia, or neuromuscular dysfunction. Management options include modification of contributing disorders, pharmacologic therapy, and behavioral techniques. CONCLUSION: Constipation and fecal incontinence are common and often debilitating conditions in elderly patients. Management should be highly individualized and dependent on cause, coexisting morbidities, and cognitive status.
Authors:
Y Romero; J M Evans; K C Fleming; S F Phillips
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Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article; Review    
Journal Detail:
Title:  Mayo Clinic proceedings. Mayo Clinic     Volume:  71     ISSN:  0025-6196     ISO Abbreviation:  Mayo Clin. Proc.     Publication Date:  1996 Jan 
Date Detail:
Created Date:  1996-02-06     Completed Date:  1996-02-06     Revised Date:  2007-10-29    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  0405543     Medline TA:  Mayo Clin Proc     Country:  UNITED STATES    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  81-92     Citation Subset:  AIM; IM    
Affiliation:
Division of Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
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MeSH Terms
Descriptor/Qualifier:
Aged
Comorbidity
Constipation* / etiology,  therapy
Fecal Incontinence* / etiology,  therapy
Humans
Referral and Consultation

From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine


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