According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, one of the most important tasks of parents is to quickly seek a solution for this problem. Many parents feel isolated, embarrassed or frustrated, but they should not just wait for it the child to “grow out of it”. If the symptoms are allowed to linger, the child’s self-esteem and social confidence may suffer, and they may develop megacolon. Parents should consult with their doctor or locate a pediatric gastroenterology specialist familiar with encopresis.
It is important to remember that while most encopresis begins with constipation, by the time children begin soiling regularly, many no longer experience the typical symptoms of constipation. They may be passing bowel movements fairly often and not suffering from pain when they pass bowel movements. In children with encopresis, avoiding the toilet is often a habit that began a long time ago. It is also important to understand that most children with encopresis no longer feel or respond to the urge to pass a bowel movement.
Solving childhood encopresis successfully revolves around four basic principles:
- The complete emptying of the colon.
- The establishment of regular bowel movements.
- The maintenance of regular bowel movements.
- Reducing concerns and issues within the family brought on by the child’s symptoms.
Children can and should play an active role in ending their poop accidents. It is important they understand the underlying causes of encopresis, know how to poop correctly, and help re-train their bodies to recognize when to poop.
