How is chronic constipation in a one-year-old child treated?

Question

Hello doctor,

My one-year-old child has been experiencing chronic constipation since birth, with tough stools and pain during bowel movements. Even though using micro enemas for temporary relief and trying medications like Movicol and Duphalac syrup as prescribed by a doctor, there has been no improvement. No lab tests have been done so far.

Using only a micro enema every time he wants to defecate, but this is a short-term help. Used Movical and Duphalac syrup, but not helping.

What should I do to identify and treat the root cause of this persistent constipation?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

As per the information provided, your son has been experiencing constipation since birth and is only able to pass hard stools with the help of a micro enema.

He is now one year old, which means this issue has been persistent for quite a long time without any noticeable improvement. This could be due to an underlying problem in the intestine, such as a narrowed segment or a local issue around the anus. It could also be related to feeding difficulties.

This situation requires further investigation to identify the cause of the constipation. The following basic tests should be conducted:

1. Blood tests: Complete blood count, procalcitonin, C-reactive protein, serum electrolytes, and liver function tests.

2. Ultrasound of the abdomen.

3. Barium enema with X-ray examination.

Please let me know about his current diet, whether he is growing well, and if he has achieved his age-appropriate developmental milestones. Also, I suggest you follow the following:

1. Continue giving Lactulose syrup (Duphalac).

2. Discontinue the use of polyethylene glycol (Movicol), as it is not recommended at this age.

Kindly connect with me with all the reports and relevant information mentioned above. I will guide you further based on the findings, or you may contact me via chat for a more detailed discussion.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.