Constipation in Children: A Practical Review

Abstract

Pediatricians and other child care providers manage a large number of children with constipation, a recurrent medical problem that is frustrating to patients, their care givers, and the health care providers themselves. Most often the constipation in children is functional in nature, and only a very small percentage of patients have an organic cause for it. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology, causes, evaluation, and management of children with functional constipation. [Pediatr Ann. 2016;45(5):e189-e196.].

Diagnosing and managing acute abdominal pain in children

“…Functional constipation in children is defi ned as constipation that occurs without an organic cause. [7][8][9] The Rome IV guidelines establish diagnostic criteria based on age. 9 Diagnosis of most children who have an organic cause will be done in the neonatal period.…”

“…9 Diagnosis of most children who have an organic cause will be done in the neonatal period. 7 Constipation accounts for 3% of pediatric visits, and 25% of all pediatric gastroenterologist visits. 7,8 Complications from constipation include stool impaction and encopresis.…”

“…7,8 Complications from constipation include stool impaction and encopresis. 7 In addition, 25% of children will go on to have chronic constipation as adults. 7 Children may present with constipation for various reasons, including diet changes, psychosocial issues, medications, and underlying medical causes such as cystic fi brosis, hypercalcemia, and lactose allergies.…”

Efficacy of Non-pharmacologic Auxiliary Treatments in Improving Defecation Function in Children With Chronic Idiopathic Constipation: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis

“…Patients with CIC always suffer from abdominal pain, painful bowel movements, large stools, and fecal incontinence (2,3). At present, the standard medical care of functional constipation contains dietary adjustment, toilet training, reassurance, education, and the use of laxatives (2,4,5). It was reported that 50% of the children receiving standard medical care (SMC) still have symptoms after several years and that the complaints might persist till adulthood (6,7).…”

Intestinal Functional among Adolescents in Brazil

“…In turn, intestinal habitus is a personal characteristic varying considerably among individuals due to factors such as quality and quantity of ingested food and drink, convenience and a satisfied feeling of well-being, with no discomfort and without the sensation that evacuation was not sufficient [2].…”