Medicine » Gastroenterology

Constipation - Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Edited by Anthony G. Catto-Smith, ISBN 978-953-51-0237-3, Hard cover, 172 pages, Publisher: InTech, Chapters published March 07, 2012 under CC BY 3.0 license
DOI: 10.5772/1556

Constipation is common in both adults and children. Estimates would suggest a median prevalence of around 12-16% in the general population. While regarded as a minor nuisance in some cases, its consequences can be severe, with a substantial impact on quality of life. Secondary faecal soiling has a profound psychological effect at all ages. This book provides contributions from authors with a range of backgrounds which clarify the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy of constipation for the general population and also for certain high risk groups.