Pediatr. praxi. 2014;15(5):270-273

Constipation: a challenge for parents, children, and physicians

MUDr.Eliška Hloušková

Pediatrická klinika LF MU a FN Brno

Constipation is a common problem encountered by general paediatricians. It is manifested by infrequency and difficulty in passing the stool.

Clinically, it is important to distinguish organic and functional constipation. Organic constipation is indicated by numerous warning signs

and any suspicion should result in early referral to a paediatric gastroenterologist. Functional constipation is much more frequent. It occurs

as a result of experience with painful defecation and the fear of it being repeated, with the child actively resisting defecation. The treatment

is based on several simultaneously occurring steps: education, release of retained stool, and long-term administration of laxatives. It can

be compared to a long-distance run with a number of obstacles and, despite optimal shape of all those involved, victory is not guaranteed.

Keywords: constipation, children, treatment

Published: October 25, 2014  Show citation