Curated Content
Published at Enemeez
Constipation is a common ailment that affects 25-30% of young children and toddlers. It is the cause of nearly 8% of pediatric outpatient visits and 25% of referrals to gastroenterology specialists. Children with Down syndrome face unique challenges when it comes to constipation and it’s important to be aware of what to look for and how to help.
Beginning in the newborn period, people with Down syndrome are more likely to develop medical conditions that interfere with digestion. Some of these medical issues can be managed by a person’s primary care physician; others might require the added help of a GI specialist.
People with Down syndrome can be constipated for the same reasons people without Down syndrome become constipated including poor diet and lack of exercise. However, people with Down syndrome are also prone to three conditions that can also cause constipation:
- Hypothyroidism
- Hirschsprung disease
- Celiac Disease
Functional and structural differences in children with Down syndrome make relieving and preventing constipation key for a child’s health, wellness, and quality of life.
Read the full post titled Understanding Constipation in Children with Down Syndrome at the Enemeez blog.