Encopresis

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Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Tests and diagnosis Complications Treatments and drugs Prevention Lifestyle and home remedies

Definition

Encopresis occurs when your child resists having bowel movements, causing impacted stool to collect in the colon and rectum. When your child's colon is full of impacted stool, liquid stool can leak around the impacted stool then out of the anus, staining your child's underwear. Encopresis may also be called stool holding.

In most cases, encopresis is a symptom of chronic constipation. Less frequently, it may be the result of developmental or emotional issues. Encopresis usually occurs after age 4, when your child has already learned to use a toilet.

Treatment for encopresis consists of clearing the colon of impacted stool and taking self-care measures to encourage your child to have regular bowel movements. With patience and positive reinforcement, treatment is usually successful.

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Symptoms