What Causes Chronic Constipation In A Child?

Posted on Tue, 7 Oct 2014

Question: My 6 yr old granddaughter has always suffered from chronic constipation. What could be the cause? She was born with a hiatal hernia and was seen at a children's hospital twice in the first 6 months after she was born. Her parents are vegetarians so she gets a lot of fruits and vegetables. They also make her drink a tall glass of water with every mail. They drink almond milk, no sugar, limit her carb intake, etc. This is affecting every meal in a negative way. I understand why she is forced to drink water but I feel it's important to get to the cause. I had 3 children and I have 3 grandchildren and it's not normal for a child to get constipated so easily. PLEASE HELP! She is constantly getting badgered to drink water. I am very concerned about this.

Answered by Dr. Arun (59 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
needs evaluation for other causes like thyroid

Detailed Answer:
Hi
thanks for writing to us.
There are various other causes to be ruled out in your grand daughter.
If she is taking enough fruits, vegetables and water, then rule out these
1. Withholding when stools come. Withholding when stools come and postponing is one of the commonest cause. This should be avoided.
2. Check with your doctor for hypothyroidism, intestinal adhesions. She may need thyroid test and ultrasound abdomen to look for at anatomic problems given her history of hiatal hernia.
3. Limiting dairy products and increasing fiber intake.
4. Worm infestation can cause constipation too.
Wishing her good health.
regards

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E