Factors Associated with Pediatric Constipation- A Single Center Study

Abstract

Introduction: Constipation or difficulty in bowel movement is a common problem in children. It is often results from without any previous illness or previous painful bowel movements. Dietary influences such as low fiber intake and inadequate hydration play a role too. Many factors have been associated with the occurrence of constipation. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to investigate the factors associated with pediatric constipation and its management. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in out-patient Department of Pediatrics surgery in Enam Medical College and Hospital, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh, during the period from July to December 2022. Total 180 patients with constipation were included in this study. Result: Our study of 180 children, average age was 2.4 years and slightly more in females, investigated factors relating to constipation. Most of the children had constipation for 6-12 months and more; and some children had constipation for 3-4 years, with symptoms such as large hard stool (95.0%), painful defecation (88.3%), and abdominal pain or crying (71.1%). Some children had per rectal bleeding and perianal mass or growth that is sentinel piles. A large number of clinical and therapeutic factors were associated with chronic constipation. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlighted the prominence of symptoms like large, hard, and painful defecation of children. With notable findings such as inadequate fluid and fiber intake and change in dietary habit during weaning period and lack of toilet training play an important role in producing constipation.