A member asked:

My 9 year old has had constipation all her life nothing helps what do you suggest ?

9 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Marcus Degraw answered

Specializes in Pediatrics

GI consult: First and foremost, this could signal a bigger problem such as hirschsprungs disease or something else and those need to be explored. Gi consult and likely scope is needed first. To treat constipation, fiber is key. Diet must contain fiber, and at this age you need 25+ grams per day. As reference, an apple has 3 gms, wheat bread has 1g per slice, broccoli 3-5 gms, etc. Miralax (polyethylene glycol) daily helps as well.

Answered 9/28/2016

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GI consult: Lifelong constipation in a child is not normal. Certain conditions need to be diagnosed and treated so a normal life can be enjoyed. At a minimum your child would need a low segment barium enema that is read by a pediatric radiologist. Based on the study a biopsy of the colon may be indicated to rule out hirschsprung's disease. You can google this.

Answered 2/8/2017

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GI consult: The GI doctor will help determine based on history and physical, if further testing is necessary.

Answered 11/28/2017

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