What Causes Bowel Incontinence In A Child?

Hello,

The most common cause of bowel incontinence in children is functional constipation(no anatomical abnormality of GI tract).

Stool backs up and the rectum and end of the colon become filled with stool. The stool sits in the rectum and colon and water is removed from it causing the stool to become hard.

Liquid stool above in the colon leaks down between the hard stool and the intestinal lining of the rectum and lower colon. This is what comes out into the child's underpants.

Dietary changes and behavioral modification are needed to manage this problem. Good parenting may allow for elimination of some items(that predispose to constipation) with the introduction of others.

Prune, pear, peach, and apricot juices are effective. Papaya, cantaloupe, grapes, and popcorn are high in fiber. Often a child will accept 1-2 vegetables(carrots, corn, peas) BUT you must be persistent.

Whole grain breads and brown rice will bring life-long benefits. Behavioral modification is also necessary. Your son should have a daily star or sticker chart. He must sit on the toilet every day at least once after a meal for 8-10 minutes.

Even if your child does not have a bowel movement with each toilet sitting, this will still make the experience a routine.

The most important element in the management of functional constipation is persistence. Several months(3-6) of MiraLAX is often needed and is safe and non-habit forming.

There are some excellent pediatric gastroenterologists who believe that children with this disorder lose the sensation of needing to pass a bowel movement as well as not being able to smell its odor.

Remember that this treatment method is a suggestion that comes from a doctor who has not examined your son. I think it will be wise for you to have a conversation about this problem with your son's pediatrician.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Regards,
Dr. Arnold Zedd, Pediatrician