Constipation


Constipation is one of the commonest referrals into our outpatient service. Onset with weaning and potty training is common. Blood tests and imaging are not usually required. Faecal incontinence is commonly due to constipation with impaction and overflow diarrhoea. Contributing factors for constipation include pain, fever, inadequate fluid intake, reduced dietary fibre intake, toilet training issues, the effects of drugs such as sedating antihistamines or opiates, psychosocial issues, and a family history of constipation. Constipation is more common in children who are physically inactive or with impaired mobility or a neurodevelopmental disorder (e.g. cerebral palsy, Down’s syndrome or autistic spectrum disorder).


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