The Korean Journal of Medicine

The Korean Association of Internal Medicine (대한내과학회)
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Diagnosis and Treatment of Constipation

변비의 진단과 치료

  • Jeon, Han Ho (Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine) ;
  • Park, Hyojinm (Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine)
  • 전한호 (연세대학교 의과대학 강남세브란스병원 소화기내과) ;
  • 박효진 (연세대학교 의과대학 강남세브란스병원 소화기내과)
  • Published : 2012.11.01
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Abstract

Constipation is a common condition affecting approximately 16.5% of population in Korea. Evaluation of constipation should be done with a history and physical examination at first. In patients with alarm sign, blood test, radiography or colonoscopy should be considered. Additionally, for defining the pathophysiology and treatment of severe constipation, physiologic studies are needed. Treatment of constipation based on the pathophysiology is generally successful. Exercise and fiber are helpful in some patients with constipation. The laxative including osmotic agent, stimulant laxatives and stool softer have been shown to be more effective than placebo at relieving symptoms of constipation. Traditional laxatives are not tolerated and are not effective in all patients with constipation. Promising drug classes, new enterokinetic agents such as 5-hydroxytyptamine-4 receptor agonists and chloride channel activators could be effective in patients with severe constipation. Biofeedback could relieve symptoms in selected patients with pelvic floor dysfunction and severe constipation. Surgical treatment could be helpful in carefully selected patients with refractory constipation.

Keywords

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