Constipation

Constipation is the most common bowel issues in children affecting up to 30% of all children (Tabbers & Benninga, 2015).  It is common among children of preschool age and can often be missed in older children. 

Some signs and symptoms of constipation may include, infrequent bowel motions, foul smelling wind and stools, excessive wind, occasional passage of enormous stools, passage of pellet shaped stools, withholding or straining to pass stools, soiling, abdominal pain, distension and discomfort, poor appetite, lack of energy, irritable and general malaise (NICE, 2017)

It is important that it is identified and treated early to prevent it becoming more serious.  For most children constipation can be treated successfully but for some they need ongoing support.

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