Constipation

Constipation is very common in children, affecting up to 10-percent at any given time. With constipation, stools are dry, hard, difficult and often painful to pass. There are a number of causes of constipation including insufficient fiber in the diet, lack of exercise, not enough liquids and the presence of pathogens in the gastrointestinal system. With children older than 18 months, constipation can be caused by a willful avoidance of going to the toilet or, at school, avoiding going to the bathroom because of privacy concerns.