Constipation

Constipation is a common issue in children, with about 1 in 20 kids seeing a doctor for help with the condition. Under the care of empathetic physician Israel Kochin M.D., your child can get fast help for bowel movement difficulties. Dr. Kochin has two offices in the Midwood neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, and the Elmhurst neighborhood of Queens, New York, so you can call the nearest office or book online today for prompt help.

What is constipation?

Constipation occurs when your child has fewer than two bowel movements weekly. This term can also apply to hard, dry, or lumpy stools that are painful to pass. 

When should my child see a doctor about constipation?

Most cases of constipation are self-limiting, but if constipation continues, your child needs to see Dr. Kochin to find out the cause. Some signs that it’s time to seek help include:

• Constipation continues for weeks or longer
• Blood in stool 
• Abdominal pain alongside constipation
• Feeling of fullness even after passing stool

If chronic constipation isn’t treated, it can lead to complications like fecal impaction, anal fissures, bladder control issues, hemorrhoids, or rectal prolapse.

What causes constipation in children?

There are many causes of constipation in children, such as:

Diet changes

Diet changes, like eating too little fiber or drinking too little water, can lead to constipation. 

Routine changes

Any change in routine can be confusing for children and may affect their bowel movements. 

Food allergies

Food allergies, like a cow’s milk allergy, can lead to constipation or other bowel issues.

Withholding bowel movements

Children might need to have a bowel movement but withhold it for many reasons such as toilet training rebellion, fear of using the bathroom away from home, desire to keep playing instead of going to the bathroom, and fear of discomfort. 

In most cases, constipation isn’t caused by serious medical problems, but some children may experience constipation as an effect of Hirschsprung disease, celiac disease, or another health or nutrition problem. 

How is constipation treated in children?

Dr. Kochin recommends a constipation treatment plan based on its underlying cause. Your child may need lab tests, imaging tests, bowel function tests, or other diagnostic studies to determine the right treatment path. 

In many cases, diet and behavior changes effectively resolve constipation in children. Dr. Kochin may recommend an enema or laxative for occasional constipation, but they’re not for daily use. 

If your child has a constipation complication like rectal prolapse, Dr. Kochin may perform an in-office procedure to help restore normal bowel function. 

If your child is struggling with constipation, call the nearest office of Israel Kochin M.D. or book an appointment online today.