ABSTRACT
Both constipation and diarrhea are commonly seen in the elderly population. The epidemiology, causes, evaluation and treatment of constipation and diarrhea are described in detail.
Constipation is a frequent concern in older adults and accounts for an increase in the use of the health-care system and a substantial proportion of health-care dollars spent on over-the-counter medications.1-3 Almost half of all patients more than 65 years of age report constipation or the regular use of laxatives.4 Chronic constipation can lead to fecal impaction, incontinence, and delirium, which necessitate hospitalization and severe curtailment of normal activities of daily living.5-8
Definition Constipation is defined by patients as difficulty with defecation and complaints of hard stools or straining.
