FUNCTIONAL CONSTIPATION IN CHILDREN – A CURRENT ISSUE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11603/1811-2471.2025.v.i4.15768Keywords:
children, functional gastrointestinal disorder, constipation, diagnosis, treatmentAbstract
SUMMARY. Functional constipation is the most common functional gastrointestinal disorder in children of various ages, characterized by complex and multifactorial pathophysiological mechanisms and treatment challenges. The term “functional constipation” refers to infrequent and/or difficult bowel movements, often accompanied by painful defecation, the passage of hard, dense stools, and a sensation of incomplete evacuation.
The aim – to analyze the relevance of the problem of functional constipation in children according to the Rome IV pediatric criteria to promote their broader application in pediatric practice.
Material and Methods. The study employed informational, bibliographic, and analytical methods using international electronic medical information databases concerning functional constipation based on the Rome IV criteria.
Results. Risk factors for the development of constipation in children include a diet low in fiber and high in calories (e.g., consumption of fast food and sweets), a sedentary lifestyle with little to no physical activity, a family history of constipation, as well as emotional and psychological disorders, and stress experienced by children within the family and society. A lack of patient compliance with treatment and parental concerns regarding the long-term use of certain non-pharmacological and pharmacological therapies often contribute to its ineffectiveness. A significant number of clinicians consider constipation to be caused by organic pathology, although it is most often of functional origin.
Conclusion. Contrary to the widespread belief that children outgrow functional constipation without issues, it can lead to serious consequences for colon function and the child’s psychological well-being, significantly impacting quality of life and negatively affecting future health and education. This review aims to focus on various aspects of functional constipation in children, including its prevalence, mechanisms of development, diagnostic criteria, as well as traditional and emerging treatment options, especially non-pharmacological approaches.
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