Diagnosis and management of functional constipation: a common pediatric problem

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Primary Care Medicine

Background:

• Constipation in children presents with diverse etiologies including functional, anatomic, neurologic, obstructive, endocrine, metabolic, and medicinal causes.
• Functional constipation is a common diagnosis in pediatric primary care settings.

Observation:

• This article focuses on the common clinical presentation of functional constipation in pediatric patients.
• It outlines established diagnostic criteria for identifying functional constipation.
• Current treatment and management guidelines relevant to pediatric primary care are reviewed.

Findings:

• The review synthesizes current knowledge on functional constipation in children.
• It provides a framework for diagnosis and management within primary care.

Implications:

• Highlights the role and implications for nurse practitioners in managing pediatric constipation.
• Identifies areas for future research in pediatric functional constipation.