Constipation

Constipation is defined as difficulty passing stool and/or the passage of hard stool. These stools can be small or large. The frequency of bowel movements varies with each child and his/her diet. There are several causes of constipation including: The child may ignore the urge to have a bowel movement. Occasionally, the child can experience what is called the "pain retention cycle". This means that the child has experienced a hard, painful stool in the past and then attempts to withhold future stools to avoid pain. As the stool is retained in the rectum, it becomes drier and harder which means that the next bowel movement is painful, and the cycle continues.

The goal in the treatment of constipation is to promote the passage of soft, regular stools. Positive results requires time and patience.

Many children who experience constipation or soil their cloths (encopresis) have a large amount of stool in their colon and this must be evacuated before stool softeners will work. Your doctor or nurse will discuss options to help your child evacuate this stool.

Treatment consists mainly of a stool softener. This will promote soft stools that are no longer painful. It can take time to find the dosage that is optimal for your child. The child will also be given dietary suggestions, including increasing fluids and fiber.