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Constipation

Also known as: chronic constipation, functional constipation, chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC)

What is constipation?

Constipation in a common problem in children and is described as a condition where the child has infrequent (less than 2-3 or less stools a week , or hard dry and small bowel movements that are difficult to pass and are painful. The condition is usually short-lived but can be long-lasting (chronic).

What causes constipation?

Constipation occurs because the stool stays in the colon (where water is absorbed) for too long a time. This can happen in babies with changes in formula feeds/diet, because children ignore the urge to have a bowel movement, or because of lack of activity, a diet low in fiber, any acute illness with fever, dehydration, certain medications or health problems such as irritable bowel syndrome or other medical conditions (like poor thyroid function, etc.)

What are the symptoms of constipation?

Along with the lack of bowel movements, abdominal pain and bloating, pain when passing stools, some children will have a poor appetite or nausea/vomiting and some may have problems with passing urine (or urinary tract infections).

What are constipation care options?

In some cases, changes as simple as drinking more water, eating more fiber or getting more exercise can help with constipation. There are also a number of over-the-counter oral or rectal laxative medications that can help. In more serious instances of constipation, prescription medications or manual removal of stool (disimpaction) may be required.

Gastroenterology

Specializing in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders for infants, children and adolescents. 

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Intestinal Dysmotility

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Pelvic Pain (in girls)

Pain below the umbilicus, in the lower part of the abdomen and between the hip bones is referred to as pelvic pain.

Intestinal Atresia, and Stenosis and Intestinal Cysts

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Electrolyte Imbalance

When electrolytes are out of balance in the body (either too high or too low) they cause problems in many organ or systems.

Contrast Enema

A contrast enema is an enema that is performed with a substance such as barium that makes certain parts of the body, such as the colon, show up better on an X-ray. This helps with the diagnosis of certain diseases.

Nasogastric Laxative Cleanout

Nasogastric laxative cleanout is a treatment for severe constipation in children.

Enema Administration

An enema is liquid medicine delivered into the anus and rectum to relieve constipation and help with colon cleansing, among other medical uses.

Rectal Suction Biopsy

A rectal suction biopsy is a diagnostic procedure performed to look for problems related to the colon and rectum. It might be needed if a child is having difficulty with bowel movements. It involves removing a small sample of tissue from the rectum.