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Constipation in Children

Most children's problems with stool frequency and consistency can be managed with diet and behavioural changes.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Constipation in Children?

Constipation accounts for about 3% of all paediatric visits and 25% of gastrointestinal visits. Functional constipation occurs without an underlying organic cause and accounts for the great majority of cases.

Toilet training, starting school, dietary changes and stressful life events are key triggers for functional constipation. Painful defecation drives the child to withhold stool, creating a vicious cycle.

Encopresis (faecal incontinence) develops because of long-standing stool retention; parents may mistake it for diarrhoea. Encopresis cannot be treated without resolving the underlying constipation.

Symptoms

2 or fewer bowel movements per week
Hard, pellet-like stools
Pain and straining during defecation
Abdominal pain and distention
Soiling (encopresis)
Rectal bleeding (due to anal fissure)

Risk Factors

Low fibre and fluid intake
Sedentary lifestyle
Toilet-training stress
Painful first defecation experience
Food allergy (especially cow's milk)
Hypothyroidism or Hirschsprung's disease (organic causes)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If a newborn has not passed meconium in the first 48 hours
  • If constipation is accompanied by abdominal distention, vomiting or weight loss
  • If there is rectal bleeding or an anal fissure
  • If there is no response to treatment after 6 months
  • If neurological signs are present (organic cause work-up)

Treatment Methods

01
Increased fibre: fruits, vegetables, whole grains; body weight (kg) + 5 g of fibre per day
02
Adequate fluid intake: water and fruit juice
03
Regular toilet routine: sitting on the toilet for 5–10 minutes after meals
04
Osmotic laxatives: polyethylene glycol (PEG) is first line
05
Disimpaction: enemas or high-dose PEG to clear faecal impaction first
06
Behavioural and psychological support in toilet phobia or stress

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.