AH- ch 41

A collection of vocabulary flashcards derived from lecture notes on constipation, including definitions and key concepts.

Constipation

A condition characterized by fewer than three bowel movements per week or difficulty passing hard, dry, or small stools.

Prevalence of Constipation

Affects approximately 63 million Americans.

At-Risk Groups for Constipation

Women (especially pregnant), post-surgery patients, older adults, non-Caucasians, and individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Nature of Constipation

It is a symptom, not a disease; can indicate an underlying GI disorder.

Causes of Constipation

Includes medications, health conditions like celiac disease, lifestyle factors such as a low-fiber diet, inadequate fluid intake, and ignoring the urge to defecate.

Role of Fiber in Constipation

Increases stool bulk and supports a healthy GI microbiome.

Functional Constipation

The most common type, characterized by normal transit function but difficulty in bowel movements.

Slow-Transit Constipation

Caused by motor function disorders, characterized by infrequent bowel movements.

Defecatory Disorders

Conditions caused by improper coordination between pelvic floor and anal sphincter.

Diagnosis of Constipation

Based on patient history, physical exam, imaging tests like barium enema, sigmoidoscopy, and stool testing.

Functional Constipation Diagnosis

Majority of cases are functional; secondary causes must be considered.

Complications of Constipation

Includes fecal impaction, hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and megacolon.

Effects of Ignoring the Urge to Defecate

Can desensitize rectal mucosa, leading to colon irritability and increased risk of constipation.

Lifestyle Factors Leading to Constipation

Ignoring defecation urges, lack of exercise, low dietary fiber, inadequate fluid intake, and stress.

Assessment of Constipation

Involves a comprehensive patient assessment including history, dietary habits, and current symptoms.

Treatment Approaches for Constipation

Includes lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and medications such as laxatives.

Patient Education for Constipation

Encourages proper bowel habits, fiber and fluid intake, and responding promptly to urges.

Diarrhea

Increased frequency of bowel movements (more than 3 per day) with loose or liquid stool consistency.

Acute Diarrhea

Lasts 1-2 days, often self-limiting, commonly caused by viral infections.

Chronic Diarrhea

Lasts more than 4 weeks; common causes include medication-related issues, metabolic disorders, and infections.

Aging and Constipation

Aging can lead to decreased muscle tone, exacerbating constipation issues.

Fecal Impaction

Accumulation of dry, hardened feces that cannot be expelled, leading to incontinence and potential infection.

Anismus

A type of pelvic floor dysfunction that can cause constipation and fecal incontinence.

Bowel Habit Training

Encourages toilet positioning and using the gastrocolic reflex to promote regular bowel movements.

Biofeedback Therapy

A treatment that helps relax the sphincter mechanism and is used for dyssynergic defecation.

Opioid-Induced Constipation

Constipation that occurs with opioid use, often requiring specific assessment and management strategies.