Question
A two-and-a-half-year-old boy has been unable to defecate on his own since birth and needs to use a lubricant enema every time he has a bowel movement. The parents seek professional medical advice, hoping to understand the cause of this situation and the corresponding measures.
Answer
The treatment of childhood constipation first requires the correct guidance from parents. Pay attention to the signals before a child defecates and set a fixed time for defecation to help the child gradually adapt. If a child does not defecate on a particular day, they should not be forced to defecate, nor should they be allowed to sit on the toilet for long periods. In terms of diet, provide foods rich in fiber, such as vegetables, sweet potatoes, and fruits. For children with constipation, it is usually necessary to undergo defecation habit training, and medication can be given appropriately to promote intestinal peristalsis and lubrication.