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Constipation in children with isolated overactive bladders

Maria Luiza Veiga1, Patrícia Lordêlo, Tiago Farias

  • 1CEDIMI, (Center for Childhood Urinary Disorders), Department of Urology and Physiotherapy, Bahiana School of Medicine, Bahia, Brazil.

Journal of Pediatric Urology
|March 7, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Children with isolated overactive bladder (IOAB) are significantly more likely to experience constipation than their peers without urinary symptoms. This study highlights a key link between bladder dysfunction and bowel issues in pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Urology
  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Child Health

Background:

  • Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition in children.
  • Constipation is a frequent comorbidity in pediatric urology patients.
  • The relationship between isolated overactive bladder (IOAB) and constipation requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of constipation in children diagnosed with isolated overactive bladder (IOAB).
  • To compare constipation rates in children with IOAB versus a control group without urinary complaints.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study involving 51 children with IOAB and 74 controls aged 4-14 years.
  • Constipation was assessed using the Rome III criteria via questionnaires.
  • IOAB was defined by urgency, frequency, or daytime incontinence without post-void residual urine.

Main Results:

  • Children with IOAB exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of constipation (54.9%) compared to controls (29.7%).
  • Specific Rome III criteria for constipation, including stool retention and hard stools, were more common in the IOAB group.
  • Constipation was more prevalent in males within the IOAB cohort.

Conclusions:

  • Children with IOAB have a substantially increased risk of constipation compared to children without urinary symptoms.
  • This study underscores the importance of evaluating bowel function in pediatric patients with IOAB.
  • Early identification and management of constipation may be crucial for children with IOAB.
Abstract

Keywords:
ChildConstipationIsolated overactive bladderPrevalence

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