What is functional constipation?

The article is professionally consulted by Specialist Doctor II, MSc. Phan Thi Minh Huong - Gastroenterologist, Department of Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Da Nang International General Hospital

Functional constipation is a disease that occurs mainly in children from 2 to 6 years old. Although the disease is not dangerous, if not treated early, it can cause many dangerous complications such as hemorrhoid formation, anal fissure, malnutrition, ...

Functional constipation, also known as functional constipation, is a condition in which a child is unable to have a bowel movement or has great difficulty defecating without any physical damage to the gastrointestinal tract.
According to specialists, functional constipation in young children is mainly due to the child's digestive system not yet fully developed; the diet lacks fiber and does not provide enough water; children often refrain from going to the toilet. This is considered physiological constipation in infants, although it is not dangerous, but if not treated early, it can cause many dangerous complications such as hemorrhoid formation, anal fissure, malnutrition, etc. ..
Functional constipation is divided into 3 main types:
Constipation with normal bowel movements: The intestinal muscles contract and relax not too quickly, not too slowly, but make it difficult for the child to pass. Constipation slow bowel movements: The activity of the intestinal muscles is slower than usual. Waste is moved slowly in the intestinal lumen. Constipation due to stool disorders: Children are constipated and have a feeling of wanting to go but can't, causing pain.

Functional constipation in infants and children under 4 years of age is diagnosed when at least 2 of the following symptoms are present:
Passing stools less than 3 times/week History of holding stools History of hard or painful stools stool History of large stools There is a large stool mass in the rectum. For children who are able to defecate on their own, the following criteria can be added: At least 1 time/week of uncontrollable bowel movements after being able to defecate. History of large stools, clogged toilet. 3. Treatment and prevention of functional constipation in children To treat constipation in children, parents should be patient because constipation does not go away as quickly as common diseases and the children are less cooperative.
Treatment and prevention of constipation in children need to combine changes in diet, bowel habits, physical activity along with medication (if constipated and indicated). .
Change the appropriate diet: In children with constipation, parents need to pay attention to ensure that they provide enough water and fiber according to normal needs (no excess). Diet is a very important method in preventing constipation. For infants, if exclusively breastfed, the mother should pay attention to her diet, because food affects the quality of milk; If formula-fed babies are constipated, mothers should learn and change other types of milk, if necessary, consult a doctor. Practice bowel habits: Mothers need to train their babies to have natural and appropriate bowel habits. Find and fix the causes of children holding back stools.