Introduction

Dr. Latha Ravichandran, DCH, DNB(Pediatric Medicine)*

Constipation is one of the common problems encountered in Pediatric Office Practice. The etiology of constipation may vary from simple inadequacy of feeds to gross anatomical problems. The role of the Family Physician is to treat simple constipation and to identify appropriately anatomic, neurologic, gastrointestinal causes of constipation.

Definition: Constipation is painful passage of stools, usually associated with crying in young children and in infants. Stool retention with voluntary withholding or a stool frequency of fewer than three bowel movements in a week.