When You Don't Have The Stomach For It.

Constipation and abdominal pains are the most common symptoms of elderly people seeking treatment.

Constipation is when the frequency of stool is less than three times a week, and it is estimated that between ¼ and ⅓ of elderly people suffer from constipation. Constipation is more common in the elderly mostly because older people carry out less physical activity due to joint or heart problems, and this lowers their metabolism. The lack of fibre in one’s diet and also reduced water intake can lead to constipation.

The presentation of abdominal pains in the elderly can be slightly different – it tends to present itself later and can be less localised compared to those who are younger so they will need to undergo a more thorough and intensive examination. The causes of acute abdominal pains in elderly people can be similar to younger people.

It can be caused by acute appendicitis, gall stone disease or gastroenteritis,pancreatitis, internal malignancies and by perforated organs like bowels and stomach.In addition to abdominal pains, elderly people should look out for a change in bowel habits, loss of weight and appetite.

An immediate check-up is advisable when a person has any of these symptoms.For constipation, the symptoms include hard stool,the need to strain when passing motion and incomplete evacuation.

TREATMENT

There are various ways to tackle constipation.Firstly, the doctor has to identify if it is primary constipation, constipation of no specific reason or constipation that is due to an underlying disease like diabetes,colonic stricture because of cancer,lack of thyroid hormones, and anorectal problems.

Once the necessary tests are conducted and can as certain that the constipation is not a cause for any underlying disease, doctors will then advise patients on the importance of regular bowel movements,to drink more water, to eat a diet that is rich in fibre like fruits, vegetables and bran, and do light exercises.If the constipation still continues,then laxatives will  be prescribed.

Abdominal pains in the elderly should not be taken lightly. More often than not, these pains can lead to something more severe, plus there is a higher chance of finding abnormalities in them so it is best to get it checked as soon as possible.

This article was contributed to Tab A Doctor by,
Dr Chan Yee Ming, Gastroenterologist, Sime Darby Medical Centre