Pediatric gastroenterologist for childhood constipation in Bogotá

Pediatric gastroenterologist for childhood constipation in Bogotá

Childhood constipation is a common problem that can cause abdominal pain, difficulty having bowel movements, hard stools, and concern for both children and their parents. When constipation becomes recurrent or starts affecting a child's daily life, it is important to determine why it is occurring and seek specialized medical evaluation.

When is a child considered to have constipation?

It is not only about how often a child goes to the bathroom. Constipation may occur when stools are hard, painful, difficult to pass, or when a child holds back the urge to have a bowel movement.

Common signs include:

• Hard or very large stools.
• Pain when having a bowel movement.
• Excessive straining to pass stool.
• Fewer bowel movements than usual.
• Abdominal pain or bloating.
• Fear or refusal to use the bathroom.
• Voluntary stool withholding.

Why does my child hold in their bowel movements?

It is common for some children to withhold stool after experiencing a painful bowel movement. The child may begin to associate going to the bathroom with pain and try to avoid it.

When stool is retained, it can remain in the intestine for longer, become harder, and make the next bowel movement even more difficult. This can create a cycle of pain, fear, and stool withholding.

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Is it normal for my child to have a stomachache when going to the bathroom?

Abdominal pain can occur along with constipation, especially when stools are difficult to pass. However, frequent or severe abdominal pain should not automatically be attributed to constipation.

If a child has recurrent abdominal pain, persistent changes in bowel movements, or frequent difficulty passing stool, an evaluation by a pediatric gastroenterologist can help determine the cause.

Why does my child soil their underwear?

Some children with prolonged constipation may experience involuntary leakage of stool into their underwear, known as encopresis.

This can be very frustrating for the child and their family. It should not simply be interpreted as a behavioral problem or lack of hygiene. It may be related to retained stool that requires appropriate medical evaluation and treatment.

What foods can influence constipation?

Diet can influence bowel habits. The amount of fiber and fluids a child consumes, as well as their overall eating habits, may be relevant.

However, not all cases of constipation can be resolved simply by changing the diet. When the problem persists, it is important to identify what is causing it and establish an individualized management plan.

When does constipation stop being temporary?

If constipation keeps recurring, causes pain, creates fear of going to the bathroom, leads to stool leakage, or begins to interfere with the child's usual activities, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation.

Medical evaluation is also important when other symptoms are present or when measures taken at home have not resolved the problem.

When should I take my child to a pediatric gastroenterologist?

A pediatric gastroenterology consultation may be recommended when a child has recurrent constipation, pain during bowel movements, stool withholding, very hard stools, stool leakage, or frequent abdominal discomfort.

The specialist can evaluate the child's symptoms, medical history, and habits to identify possible causes and provide appropriate guidance for treatment.

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How can a pediatric gastroenterologist help?

A pediatric gastroenterologist performs a comprehensive evaluation to understand the child's digestive problem and determine whether it is functional constipation or whether other factors require further investigation.

The evaluation may include a review of bowel habits, diet, medical history, associated symptoms, and how the problem has progressed. This information can be used to establish an appropriate management plan for each child.

Pediatric gastroenterologist in Bogotá for childhood constipation

Dr. Sandra Paipilla Monroy is a pediatric gastroenterologist in Bogotá who treats children with different digestive system problems, including childhood constipation and associated symptoms.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Sandra Paipilla Monroy, a pediatric gastroenterologist in Bogotá, and receive specialized evaluation for your child's digestive health.

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