Valoración y tratamiento del estreñimiento en el anciano

Constipation is a highly frequent problem in the elderly and it has many health and psychological implications. Ageing implies a combination of factors that converge in the appearance of constipation, including immobility, dehydration and polypharmacy. The tendency to trivialise constipation as a pathology may cause complications and physical problems in sufferers. The following review analyses the epidemiology, correct diagnosis and pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment of constipation in the elderly. The elderly patient should follow certain initial non-pharmacological recommendations, such as mobility, hydration and fibre intake, and use laxatives whenever nonpharmacological measures prove insufficient. The review includes an analysis of various treatments and the advisability of one rather than another in distinct cases.