The causes of constipation in the elderly are complex, including abnormal colon dynamics, changes in the pelvic floor structure, a variety of chronic diseases can lead to constipation, and need to follow the doctor’s instructions for general treatment measures, medication, etc., and if necessary, also need to carry out surgical treatment.
1. General therapeutic measures: the elderly usually need to actively regulate their diet, consume more dietary fiber-rich foods and enough water, as well as moderate exercise, and also need to maintain a good state of mind, usually need to develop good defecation habits, try to get up early in the morning and defecate after meals.
2. Medication: Usually, patients can use osmotic laxatives such as polyethylene glycol and lactulose as prescribed by the doctor, as well as gastric stimulating drugs such as domperidone and mosapride. Some patients can also use castor oil and other stimulating laxatives. If necessary, auxiliary application of corkscrew and warm water enema.
3. Surgery: If the patient’s conservative treatment is ineffective, or serious dysfunction occurs, it is also necessary to follow the doctor’s instructions for surgical treatment. General colon slow transmission type constipation patients, can take the whole colon resection, colon subtotal resection. For the exit obstruction type constipation, can be rectal anterior dilatation repair, hemorrhoidal mucosal circumcision.
Elderly constipation causes are more complex, it is recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible, clear causes, follow the doctor’s instructions to take reasonable treatment measures, and do a good job of daily care, so as not to aggravate the symptoms.