Pediatria pre prax 2/2019

Constipation in children – part I

Constipation is a common problem in children and adults in the civilized world. It may occur at any age, either as a symptom of various diseases or even in healthy subjects. It is one of the most common medical concerns paediatricians and paediatric gastroenterologists are faced with. It is necessary to differentiate between symptomatic constipation that accompanies other diseases from functional constipation without any organic cause. Functional constipation is most common in childhood and is related to lifestyle change, nutrition and lack of physical activity. It poses a significant health burden and affects the quality of life negatively. Careful medical history using the Roma criteria and the evaluation of physical and laboratory findings are mandatory in the initial diagnostic assessment.

Keywords: functional constipation, symptomatic constipation, encopresis, childhood, diagnosis, treatment