Chronic idiopathic constipation: Pathophysiology and treatment

Chronic constipation is common-in the general population, especially in women, in its idiopathic form. However, confusion still surrounds its definition, despite recent efforts to standardize it. Constipation can be divided in two large subgroups - normal transit and slow transit. They have different pathophysiological bases still not completely understood. Most patients respond to simple therapeutic measures aimed at correcting dietary fiber intake and lifestyle. Others, however, need more aggressive treatment, including laxatives, psychological therapy, and biofeedback. In a few patients with intractable constipation, surgery might be indicated to give relief.