Chronic constipation in children: diagnosis and treatment through the prism of time

Abstract

Constipation is one of the most frequent nosologies encountered during outpatient consultations with a pediatric gastroenterologist. This article discusses the diagnosis and treatment of chronic constipation (CC) in children on the basis of both international and Russian clinical guidelines. About 70% of children in the world suffer from CC, most of them have functional nature. In 30-52% of children, symptoms persist for the next 5 years, and about 25% of patients continue to suffer from constipation as adults. Children with CC often see a pediatrician and gastroenterologist, are treated as inpatients, or are hospitalized on an emergency basis. Consequently, chronic constipation represents a significant economic problem for the health care system. Constipation in children needs timely diagnosis and comprehensive treatment.