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Managing constipation in children with ASD - A challenge worth tackling

Kalyani Vijaykumar Mulay1, Sivaramakrishnan Venkatesh Karthik1

  • 1Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore; Department of Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.

Pediatrics and Neonatology
|February 22, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Constipation is common in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), posing challenges for diagnosis and management. A multidisciplinary approach is recommended to improve outcomes and quality of life for affected children and their families.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is frequently linked with significant gastrointestinal (GI) issues.
  • Constipation is a prevalent GI problem in children with ASD, causing substantial distress to the child and family.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and summarize strategies for optimizing the management of constipation in children with ASD.
  • To highlight the challenges in diagnosing and managing constipation in this population compared to neurotypical children.

Main Methods:

  • This is a review article.
  • It synthesizes current knowledge on constipation in ASD.
  • It focuses on a multidisciplinary, holistic management approach.

Main Results:

  • Constipation in ASD is complex due to multiple contributing factors.
  • Diagnosis and management are more challenging in children with ASD.
  • Higher rates of emergency hospital visits and admissions are associated with constipation in this group.

Conclusions:

  • Recognizing constipation as a significant issue in children with ASD is crucial.
  • A multidisciplinary, holistic approach is essential for effective management.
  • Optimized management can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life for children with ASD and their families.

Keywords:
ASDautismbehavioralconstipationlaxatives

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