Constipation

Author:Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer

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Last updated on: 28.09.2023

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Synonym(s)

Constipation

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DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

Constipation, also called constipation, refers to an acute or chronic constipation of the bowel. To diagnose functional constipation, ROM III criteria must be met. Its most common causes are irritable bowel syndrome and habitual constipation. Constipation is one of the diseases of civilisation.

Occurrence/EpidemiologyThis section has been translated automatically.

The prevalence is 20 to 30 % of all people, but a high number of unreported cases is suspected.

EtiopathogenesisThis section has been translated automatically.

A constipation can have various causes. The most common form of constipation is chronic habitual constipation as a functional disorder (about 10%). In addition, constipation occurs in the case of an existing irritable bowel syndrome, febrile illnesses and bedriddenness, shift work or a change of diet during a journey (situational constipation).
Further forms are drug-induced constipation, electrolyte disorders, constipation in organic intestinal diseases, neurogenic disorders or constipation with endocrine causes.

DiagnosisThis section has been translated automatically.

A medication anamnesis is necessary to establish a diagnosis. In addition, a laboratory screening, digital scanning of the rectum and control of the examination results are carried out. Colorectal diagnostics include an abdominal overview, colon transit time and functional protoscopy, pelvic floor EMG and anal sphincter manometry.

Complication(s)This section has been translated automatically.

Patients suffering from constipation are at increased risk of diverticulosis, hemorrhoids and diverticulitis. There may also be an increased risk of colorectal cancer and the formation of faecal stones.

TherapyThis section has been translated automatically.

For the treatment of constipation, causal therapy focuses on the treatment of the causal diseases and by omitting drugs and food that lead to constipation.

A second treatment option is symptomatic therapy, which is based on a step-by-step plan to eliminate the symptoms. Within this therapy, general medical measures are taken, such as a high-fibre diet, physical exercise, a colon massage or a pathway for the gastrocolic reflex. In addition, various laxatives are applied for short-term use.

Phytotherapy internalThis section has been translated automatically.

Lini semen, Ricini oleum virginale, Sennae folium, Rhei radix, Rhamni cathartici fructus, Rhamni purshinae cortex, Manna, see also under Aloe, note: use no longer than 1 week, Frangula alnus, also use a maximum of 1 week, Sennae fructus, also use only 1 week.

s.a.under Autumn crocus and Colchici semen (cave!)

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Last updated on: 28.09.2023