Chronic heartburn can reflect a wide range of diagnostic findings, including important underlying pathological features, and may warrant a full medical examination to detect such abnormal conditions and to permit selection of appropriate therapy. Diagnosis and treatment. Because constipation has varied etiologies and treatment modes, it is imperative for the family nurse practitioner to know options for patients. Constipation complaints can indicate multiple diseases, and such patients can be among the most difficult diagnostic and therapeutic problems in clinical practice. Two of the primary care provider's duties to these patients are to educate them about bowel habits and to explain how different medications may either aid or exacerbate their symptoms.
Constipation is a universal affliction of Western civilization.
In the United States, this malady accounts for more than 2.5 million physician visits per year, is among the most frequent reasons for self-medication, and is particularly troublesome in the elderly population. The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Mature's Medicines. Castleman M. Sheldon Sault Hendler. Beaconsfield Publishers, 1988. The Natural Guide to Medicinal Herbs and Plants.