Journal of Clinical Pediatrics ›› 2026, Vol. 44 ›› Issue (4): 355-361.doi: 10.12372/jcp.2026.25e1521

• Literature Review • Previous Articles     Next Articles

The hazards of functional constipation in children and the progress in its diagnosis and treatment

FAN Na, WANG Baoxi, LIN Yan, WANG Chunhui, ZHANG Anding, JIANG Xun()   

  1. Department of Pediatrics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710038, Shaanxi, China
  • Received:2025-12-03 Accepted:2026-02-11 Published:2026-04-15 Online:2026-03-31

Abstract:

Functional constipation is one of the most common digestive system diseases in children, which can cause symptoms such as reduced defecation, hard and dry stools, abdominal distension, and abdominal pain. Long-term constipation can also lead to related problems such as delayed growth and development, urinary retention, and anxiety in children, seriously affecting their quality of life. However, at present, there is a lack of evidence-based research on the long-term hazards of functional constipation in children. Some clinicians have insufficient understanding of it, and the poor compliance of children and their parents often leads to delays in diagnosis and treatment. In view of this, this article systematically reviews the potential hazards of functional constipation to children and the progress in its diagnosis and treatment, with the aim of enhancing the attention of clinical workers and families of affected children to this disease, optimizing management strategies and improving prognosis.

Key words: functional constipation, hazard, treatment, child

CLC Number: 

  • R72