Clinical Feature and Etiology of Constipation in Children : A Hospital-Based Study

Abstract

Background: Constipation is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder affecting children, with a significant impact on physical, social, and emotional well-being. The condition varies in presentation based on age, socioeconomic status, and dietary habits. This study aims to evaluate the clinical features, etiological factors, and demographic distribution of pediatric constipation in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Outdoor Patient Department of Pediatrics, Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute, from January 2024 to December 2024. A total of 228 children with constipation (both functional and organic) were enrolled based on the ROME IV criteria. Clinical history, dietary habits, physical examination, and digital rectal examination were assessed. Data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics 26.0, with significance set at P < 0.05. Results: Among 228 participants, presentation of constipation in boys and girls (61.1% vs. 38.9% in functional and 54.5% vs.45.5% in organic). Functional constipation was the most common type (85.5%) primarily affecting children above five years (57.4%). Organic constipation (14.5%) was more prevalent in children < 2yrs of age with Hirschsprung’s disease being the leading cause (6.1%). Key clinical symptoms included fecal impaction (68.85%), abdominal pain (49.12%), painful defecation (34.64%), and rectal bleeding (15.35%). Dietary analysis revealed a high intake of dairy products (77.43%), low fiber consumption (48.71%), and frequent junk food intake (43.08%). Conclusion: Functional constipation is the predominant type of pediatric constipation in Bangladesh with fecal impaction and abdominal pain being the most common symptoms. Dietary habits, particularly high consumption of dairy products, low fiber intake, and frequent junk food consumption, play a significant role in the occurrence of constipation.