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Children with constipation: what happens to them when they grow up?

M A Benninga1

  • 1Emma Children's Hospital/Academic Medical Centre, Dept. of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. m.a.benninga@amc.uva.nl

Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. Supplement
|February 9, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Childhood constipation and soiling persist into adulthood for many, indicating a need for better long-term treatments. Further research is essential to improve therapeutic strategies for these persistent pediatric bowel issues.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Childhood Constipation Research

Background:

  • Constipation and soiling are prevalent in childhood, causing significant distress.
  • Current treatments include laxatives and behavioral therapy, but evidence from randomized controlled trials is limited.
  • Long-term outcomes for children with constipation are poorly understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of different treatment regimens for childhood constipation.
  • To investigate the long-term prognosis of constipation in children as they transition to adulthood.

Main Methods:

  • A long-term follow-up study was conducted.
  • The study tracked children with constipation beyond puberty.

Main Results:

  • A significant percentage (30%) of children continued to experience severe constipation and soiling after puberty.
  • Low defecation frequency and soiling were common persistent complaints.

Conclusions:

  • Childhood constipation can have lasting effects into adulthood.
  • Improved and long-lasting support, along with enhanced therapeutic regimens, is crucial for effectively managing these patients.

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