Suggest Treatment For Constipation

Posted on Sat, 12 Jul 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 12 Jul 2014 Answered on

Sat, 2 Aug 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : My son is Autistic and in his early 20's. He has suffered his entire life with constipation...often going 8 days without a bowel movement. He has been on several different medications since age 6 for Anxiety Disorders. As a child I was told by his pediatrician to give him mineral oil which at times did work. At yearly exams it was brushed off as he will outgrow it. He has dealt with it over the years but at this point his stools are extremely large and he is experiencing severe soiling. He will not use a bathroom outside our home due to the size of his stool. He says he doesn't have the urge to go often. He is over 200 lbs and is not a light eater. I'm worried his lower colon has been stretched. I'm finding Encopresis but always refers to children.

Answered by Dr. Omprakash Ashokrao Deshmukh (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
try suppository.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for the query.
I would suggest you try glycerine suppository.
Fruits and vegetables will help.
Get back to me if with all investigation.
Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Omprakash Ashokrao Deshmukh (3 hours later)

We have been down the road of suppository before. This is going on now for 20 years now. More serious than that. He claims he doesn't have the urge to go. forces himself to go. Who do you suggest I take him to.

Answered by Dr. Omprakash Ashokrao Deshmukh (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
take him to gastroenterologist.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for follow up.
I suggest you to see a gastroenterologist.

Some investigation like usg, rectal manometry, rectal biopsy may be done.

Causes of chronic constipation in autistic child can include a restricted diet that provides insufficient fiber, certain medications and sensory or behavioral issues that interfere with regular toileting. Other contributors can include anatomic, neurological or metabolic problems or abnormal gut motility (a sluggish intestinal tract).
Medical tests are needed to identify such underlying causes. Treatments can include both medical and behavioral interventions.
Hope i helped you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj