Search PubMedSearch

Biomedical subjects

J Bradnock

Publications and source records attributed to J Bradnock.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

Treatment of the classical manifestations of dementia and confusion.

Treatment of dementia or confusion relies substantially upon accurate diagnosis. Common causes of acute confusion are described and a summary provided of their usual treatments. The coexistence of dementia and depressive illness is considered and the clinical distinction between depression and depressive 'pseudo-dementia' is made. The classical manifestations of dementia and confusion (agitation, depression, and sleep disturbance) are discussed. Clinical guidelines are set out for the administration of neuroleptics, antidepressants or hypnotics in the care of the demented or confused patient.

Aged

Constipation in the elderly. A physiologic study.

Colorectal motility was studied in 25 elderly patients with chronic constipation and compared with an asymptomatic control group (N = 17). Proctometrograms were performed to measure rectal volumes at sensory threshold and maximal tolerance, and rectal compliance. Anal sphincter pressures and reflexes were measured by conventional techniques. Indices of colonic motility were also assessed. Significant impairment of rectal sensory threshold was apparent in constipation. Six patients presenting with impaction demonstrated functional megarectums. The remaining 19 showed a significant reduction in maximal rectal volume and rectal compliance and 14 extruded the balloon. There were no differences in sphincter length or presence of the rectosphincteric reflex. Four patients had an absent pudendoanal reflex and the remainder significant prolongation. Total gastrointestinal transit times were prolonged in the constipation group, mainly distally due to rectal stasis. In two patients bisacodyl failed to elicit a sigmoid motor response. Constipation in the elderly is not merely due to delayed transit. Neurogenic deficits of sacral spinal cord function may be responsible for abnormalities in rectal motor and sensory function.

Adult