Encopresis is a condition where children hold back bowel movements, leading to constipation and involuntary bowel movements. It can be caused by physical or psychological factors and is more common in boys. Treatment involves cleansing the bowels and promoting bowel health with a high-fiber diet. Parents should monitor bathroom habits and seek medical advice if necessary.
Encopresis is a condition in which children hold back their bowel movements, eventually developing constipation and experiencing involuntary bowel movements. This condition is a common cause of fecal soiling and can be very frustrating for parents and other caregivers to deal with. The key thing to be aware of is that faecal incontinence should be addressed quickly and without judgment or shame, to avoid turning it into a bigger problem.
In a child with encopresis, the child holds back bowel movements, which eventually lead to impaction. This condition can be caused by mild constipation that makes bowel movements painful, causing the child to hold them back and thus making the constipation worse. Children may also develop a psychological distress that causes them to hold bowel movements for as long as possible.
The impact of fecal material in the intestine weakens it, making it more difficult for the baby to feel the need to defecate because the muscles are not as strong. Eventually, the sphincter fails to hold stool, and the child experiences involuntary defecation or some stool leaks, staining underwear, pajamas, or bedding. Children can develop this condition before or after toilet training.
Boys are much more likely to experience encopresis than girls. This condition can be very shameful and humiliating, especially when it is not handled well. Treatment for encopresis revolves around first cleansing the bowels to remove affected stools and then supporting bowel health with a diet high in fiber and fluids. Additionally, parents often find that scheduling specific times to use the bathroom to poop can encourage babies to defecate rather than retain stool, thus reducing the risk of recurring encopresis.
Parents should keep a close eye on bathroom habits and stool condition, as they can provide early clues to emerging medical problems. If a child strains while on the toilet, for example, it may indicate that she is suffering from constipation, which can turn into encopresis if not addressed. Noticeable changes in stool color and consistency can also be indicative of a problem.
Fecal soiling in general can be caused by a wide variety of medical and psychological conditions. Especially in cases where a child has been toilet trained, developing fecal incontinence is usually a sign that the child is experiencing a medical problem. A pediatrician can provide treatment and advice to help parents manage and possibly treat the condition.
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