Its one my wife and I first confronted with our 7-year-old daughter two years ago.
It turns out part of her extended trips to our shared second-floor bathroom was to change into clean undies.
She was embarrassed to tell us what was going on.
Its pokey, she told us and refused to go to the bathroom.
Unfortunately, it was not the last time this would happen.
Constipation is seldom thought about in the context of children, primarily because its overlooked as a problem.
In fact, its more common than you might think.
What Causes Constipation?
(My daughterwas born via emergency C-sectionand we began formula feeding during her second week for other reasons.
The above information is not lost on us.)
She points to food as the biggest factor.
Fooddoes not contain the same levels of nutritionas in the past.
The behavior is self-directed rather than resisting someone elses efforts to treat or help, Di Guglielmo said.
What Happens During Constipation?
Di Guglielmo says skin and urethral irritation from the buildup can compound matters.
Certain muscles are controlled voluntarily, Di Guglielmo said.
The colon stretches to hold accommodate, butencopresis, or feces leakage, can occur.
Fixing the Problem
The short-term concern is clearing the blockagebut long-term resolution takes time.
DiGuglielmo believes many children need maintenance medications, dietary changes and behavioral interventions to correct recurring constipation.
Simpson echoes this point.
Digestive enzymes and other supplements can aid in healing.
People are content with what Dr. Google suggests, but ask your healthcare provider questions, Simpson said.
Trust your instincts and seek out other opinions.
