Most parents think that the cause of their child's frequent defecation (BAB) in his pants or stools is that he is not used to defecating in the toilet. This assumption is not wrong. However, if it is too frequent, it could be that he has functional encopresis.
Functional encopresis, also known as fecal incontinence, is the involuntary passage of stool. This condition occurs due to the accumulation of feces in the large intestine and rectum, so that the intestine becomes full and makes liquid feces come out on its own.
Functional encopresis is most common in children over 4 years of age. In fact, at that age, ideally children have learned to use the toilet to defecate.
Causes of Functional Encopresis
There are at least two factors that can cause a child to experience functional encopresis, namely:
Constipation
Most cases of functional encopresis are caused by chronic constipation. The reason is, this condition makes the child's stool difficult to come out, dry, and painful when removed. This is what makes children always avoid going to the toilet.
If this condition continues, over time the child's intestines will stretch and affect the nerves that are in charge of giving signals to defecate. When the intestines are too full, liquid feces will come out involuntarily.
Emotional problems
Emotional stress can also trigger functional encopresis in children. Children may experience stress due to early toilet training or sudden changes, such as the birth of a younger sibling or parental divorce.
In addition to the two factors above, functional encopresis in children can also be caused by side effects of drugs or a medical condition, such as ADHD, autism, anxiety disorders, or depression.
Symptoms of Functional Encopresis
Frequent bowel movements in the pants are the main symptom of functional encopresis. In addition, symptoms or signs that can also be seen in children with this condition are:
- Refusing to defecate in the toilet
- Long time no defecation
- Frequent stomach ache
- Frequently wet the bed during the day
- Decreased appetite
How to Treat Functional Encopresis in Children?
Functional encopression in children is actually very easy to treat. There are several ways you can do this, namely:
- Meet your little one's fiber needs and meet their fluid intake
- Inviting your little one to exercise regularly
- Familiarize your little one to go to the toilet for 10-15 minutes after eating
However, if this condition is already severe, you need to take your little one to the doctor. The doctor will provide appropriate treatment according to the cause.
If your child's functional encopresis is caused by chronic constipation, the doctor will prescribe laxatives, either in the form of suppositories (solid drugs that are inserted through the anus) or enemas (liquid drugs that are sprayed into the rectum).
As for functional encopresis due to emotional problems, the doctor may refer the child to a psychologist for counseling or psychological therapy.
However, before providing treatment, the doctor will conduct a series of examinations which include a medical interview (anamnesis), physical examination, and radiological examination to assess the condition of the enlarged intestine and rectum due to the accumulation of feces.
Functional encopresis in children should not be underestimated. This condition can interfere with children's activities, even invite treatment bully from his friends. So, immediately check your little one to the doctor if he often urinates or defecates in his pants accidentally.
