In rare cases, constipation can be caused by a larger physical problem. These physical issues can include: Problems of the intestinal tract, rectum, or anus Nervous system problems, such as cerebral palsy Endocrine problems, such as hypothyroidism Certain medicines, such as iron supplements, some antidepressants, and narcotics such as codeine
Month: August 2022
Diet and Other
Eating too many foods that are high in fat and low in fiber. These include fast foods, junk foods, and soft drinks. Not drinking enough water and other fluids Having a change in diet. This includes when babies change from breastmilk to formula, or when they start eating solid foods. Lack of exercise Children who… Continue reading Diet and Other
Causes
Stool gets hard and dry when the large intestine (colon) takes in (absorbs) too much water. Normally, as food moves through the colon, the colon absorbs water while it makes stool. Muscle movements (contractions) push the stool toward the rectum. When the stool gets to the rectum, most of the water has been soaked up.… Continue reading Causes
How to talk to your child about ulcerative colitis
It’s important to help your child feel comfortable to share changes in symptoms, or when they’ve missed a medication dose. Here are some ways to help them cope with symptoms and to feel confident about opening up to you: Ask them for updates on how they feel both mentally and physically. Use language they can… Continue reading How to talk to your child about ulcerative colitis
Complications
In some cases, children with ulcerative colitis will need to be admitted to a hospital. Ulcerative colitis that begins in childhood is also more likely to affect a large portion of the colon. How much of the colon is affected is linked to how serious the disease is. Having a condition that causes chronic upset… Continue reading Complications
Treatment
Treatment for ulcerative colitis can depend on how severe your child’s symptoms are, and how well their disease responds to treatment. Ulcerative colitis in adults is sometimes treated with a special kind of enema that has medication. However, children often can’t tolerate receiving the enema. If they can take medications, some treatments include: aminosalicylates, to reduce inflammation in… Continue reading Treatment
Diagnosis
There’s no one test used to diagnose a child with ulcerative colitis. However, your doctor can do many different tests to rule out other conditions that have symptoms similar to ulcerative colitis. They’ll begin by doing a physical exam and taking a health history of your child’s symptoms. They‘ll ask what makes the symptoms worse and better,… Continue reading Diagnosis
Causes
Doctors don’t know exactly what causes ulcerative colitis. Researchers think that in some cases, a virus or bacteria may cause an inflammatory reaction in the colon. Research has also been examining whether a lack of beneficial gut bacteria could be a contributing cause. Some risk factors for the condition have been identified. One of the main risk factors for… Continue reading Causes
Symptoms
Ulcerative colitis usually affects adults, but it can occur in children, too. Children with ulcerative colitis can have a variety of symptoms related to inflammation. These symptoms may range from moderate to severe. Children with ulcerative colitis often go through peaks and valleys of the disease. They may not have symptoms for some time, then… Continue reading Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Consult your doctor if you have diarrhea or digestive discomfort that lasts for more than two weeks. Consult your child’s doctor if your child is pale, irritable or failing to grow or has a potbelly and foul-smelling, bulky stools. Be sure to consult your doctor before trying a gluten-free diet. If you stop or even… Continue reading When to see a doctor