CLINICAL AND LABORATORY EVALUATION OF GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS IN ELDERLY- A PROSPECTIVE STUDY.

Abstract

Introduction- Gastrointestinal (GI) problems are common problems medical practitioners encounter in the emergency department and in the primary care setting.Understanding the characteristics of GI symptoms in older adults and their underlying pathophysiology is important in order to facilitate diagnosis and treatment. Aims And Objectives1) To study the occurrence of Gastrointestinal (GIT) diseases in elderly patients. 2) To study the clinical presentation of GIT diseases in elderly patients. 3) To evaluate the GIT disorders in elderly patients by using laboratory investigations like blood counts, blood sugar, endoscopy, barium studies, CT abdomen and other investigations as needed. Material And Methods- Prospective observational study was conducted on 100 patients. After taking informed consent, patients who presented with various symptoms like anorexia, nausea, vomiting, hematemesis, malena, hematochezia, recent change in bowel habits, recent loss of weight, anal problems were thoroughly evaluated clinically and with other investigations like endoscopy, barium studies and CT abdomen. In Resultspresent study, males in age group of 37.33% were most commonly affected and females in 60-64 years age group were most commonly affected. 75% males were affected and 25% females. Hypertension was most common co-morbid condition(24%). Pain in abdomen followed by anorexia were most common symptoms. On endoscopic nding, gastritis and growth in stomach was seen in 20 patients each. These endoscopic ndings correlated with our nal results. Gastrointestinal disorders are most common cause of mortali Conclusion- ty and morbidity in elderly patients. Endoscopic ndings and histopathological ndings are cornerstone for diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment will denitely help in reducing mortality and morbidit