Functional bowel disorders in the geriatric patient: constipation, fecal impaction, and fecal incontinence

Functional bowel disorders, including constipation, fecal impaction, and fecal incontinence, are common gastrointestinal diseases in the elderly and a major source of morbidity. Often the etiology is multifactorial. Evaluation should investigate presenting symptoms and important historical clues. An appropriate workup, including radiological studies, endoscopy, and physiological testing should be individualized. Therapy should be directed against relieving the major complaint and treating the underlying pathophysiological mechanism.