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Constipation in Children  

Constipation is common in infants and children, and the problem usually is a short-lived and without significant long-term consequences. Constipation usually resolves after modification of the child’s fluid and dietary regimen, although a stool softener must sometimes be constipation, consipation, constipated, consipated.

Neonates and Infants Younger Than 1 Year of Age

Evaluation

Inadequate fluid intake, undernutrition, and excessive cow milk intake should be 

Anal inspection at the time of birth reveals anorectal anomalies in one in 

Anal stenosis accounts for 20% of these abnormalities. The anus appears very small with a central black dot of meconium, and the infant must make an intense effort to pass a ribbon-like stool. The abdomen may be distended and stool can often be palpated on

Hirschsprung Disease

This disease must be considered in all infants with difficulty passing stool. It accounts for 20-25% of cases of neonatal obstruction, and it is more common in males, and if is associated with Down syndrome. Symptoms develop during the first month of life in 80%. The

Management of Simple Constipation in Infants

Dietary corrective measures are the initial therapy for infants with simple constipation. Increasing fluid intake and the percentage of calories from carbohydrates often correct the problem. Barley malt extract has been used successfully in infants with

Older Infants and Children

Evaluation

Fluid and dietary fiber intake should be assessed. The physical examination should exclude underlying disorders that may be complicated by constipation.

Older children with chronic constipation and stool withholding activity usually also have fecal incontinence because unformed stool passes around the impaction and leaks out of the

A complete physical examination should exclude systemic illnesses that might be complicated by constipation. Minimal abdominal distention is

Management of Chronic Constipation

The distal impaction should be removed with hypertonic phosphate enemas (Fleet enema). Usually three enemas are administered during a 36- to 48-hour period.

Mineral oil should be prescribed. Stimulants should not be used because of the development of dependency. The initial dose of mineral oil is 30-75 mL (1-2.5 oz) twice daily, usually given

After one month, the oil is tapered by 15 mL (0.5 oz) per dose. The mineral oil is 

The patient should sit on the toilet, with proper foot support, for five minutes after the evening meal to take advantage of the gastrocolic reflex in establishing a