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Constipation in children

Joseph M Croffie1

  • 1Indiana University School of Medicine, James Whitcomb Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202-5225, USA. jcroffie@iupui.edu

Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|August 29, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Constipation affects many adults and children globally. Most childhood cases stem from withholding stool, often not requiring extensive medical evaluation for treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Constipation is a prevalent global health issue, affecting 10-20% of adults and 0.3-28% of children.
  • Childhood constipation frequently arises from intentional stool withholding after painful defecation experiences.

Framework:

  • This approach suggests that extensive diagnostic evaluations are often unnecessary for pediatric constipation.
  • Focuses on understanding the behavioral component of constipation in children.

Implementation:

  • Treatment involves patient and family education regarding constipation.
  • Rectal evacuation using laxatives may be necessary for fecal impaction.
  • Ongoing management includes laxative use for stool softening and behavioral modification strategies.

Implications:

  • Highlights a practical, less invasive approach to managing common childhood constipation.
  • Emphasizes the importance of behavioral interventions and education in pediatric constipation management.

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