The American journal of gastroenterology
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Am. J. Gastroenterol. · Nov 2019
Is Dyssynergic Defecation an Unrecognized Cause of Chronic Constipation in Patients Using Opioids?
The impact of opioids on anorectal function is poorly understood but potentially relevant to the pathogenesis of opioid-induced constipation (OIC). To evaluate anorectal function testing (AFT) characteristics, symptom burden, and quality of life in chronically constipated patients prescribed an opioid (OIC) in comparison with constipated patients who are not on an opioid (NOIC). ⋯ Chronically constipated patients who use opioids are more likely to have DD and more severe constipation symptoms than NOIC.