Ambulatory care for constipation in the United States, 1993-2004.

摘要: Objectives Chronic constipation is one of the most common disorders seen in primary care. In order to examine longitudinal changes ambulatory care that occur evaluation and management, we examined national trends physician office visits associated with between 1993 2004. Methods Data were derived from National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) Hospital (NHAMCS) for 1993-2004. Patient classified as encounters constipation-related Analyses performed by combining 4 yr data (1993-1996, 1997-2000, 2001-2004). Results increased million (95% CI 3.3-4.7 million) annually during 1993-1996 period 7.95 6.6-9.4 2001-2004 period. The proportion medical pediatricians, but decreased adult providers During observed time period, did not change gastroenterologists. treatment shifted bulking agents (fiber) osmotic laxatives. Conclusion There has been a significant increase 2004, highest rate pediatric population. Longitudinal indicate an pediatricians. among using laxatives unknown reasons.