Constipation in childhood can manifest with a variety of symptoms ,most commonly these include: the infrequent passage of stool (less than 4 complete stools weekly); difficulty/pain when passing stool; passage of hard ,large stools or hard pellets (rabbit droppings); stool withholding behaviours; abdominal discomfort and faecal incontinence.
Idiopathic constipation is described as constipation that cannot be explained by any anatomical or physiological abnormalities.
- Referral will be accepted for children from 6 months-16 years, from a paediatric doctor, underlying pathology or ‘red flag’ symptoms, should have been excluded and a diagnosis of idiopathic constipation made,with parent/carer/ child/young person consent.
- They should reside within the boundary area of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
- There should be no other diagnoses which impact on bowel function.
- Please include frequency and stool type as identified on Bristol Stool Chart
All children with constipation over the age of 18 months will be Vetted by a Paediatrician but not necessarily seen prior to referral to Nurse- Led Service
