CHRONIC IDIOPATHIC CONSTIPATION - PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND TREATMENT

Citation
P. Velio et G. Bassotti, CHRONIC IDIOPATHIC CONSTIPATION - PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND TREATMENT, Journal of clinical gastroenterology, 22(3), 1996, pp. 190-196
Citations number
92
Categorie Soggetti
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
ISSN journal
01920790
Volume
22
Issue
3
Year of publication
1996
Pages
190 - 196
Database
ISI
SICI code
0192-0790(1996)22:3<190:CIC-PA>2.0.ZU;2-B
Abstract
Chronic constipation is common-in the general population, especially i n women, in its idiopathic form. However, confusion still surrounds it s definition, despite recent efforts to standardize it. Constipation c an be divided in two large subgroups - normal transit and slow transit . They have different pathophysiological bases still not completely un derstood. Most patients respond to simple therapeutic measures aimed a t correcting dietary fiber intake and lifestyle. Others, however, need more aggressive treatment, including laxatives, psychological therapy , and biofeedback. In a few patients with intractable constipation, su rgery might be indicated to give relief.