Pediatric Constipation A talk at the World Cancer Congress by Myra Woolery, MN, RN, CPON, Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist (and Paul Jarosinki, PharmD, Oncology Clinical Pharmacist). Ms. Woolery discussed the characteristics associated with constipation and causes in cancer. She identified the consequences of untreated and unrecognized constipatin and spoke of the importance of developing a treatment plan with proactive strategies for patients at high risk of developing constipation. She pointed out that very few studies have been done on constipation and that it lacks a clear definition. Generally it is based on a subjective (your own) perception of symptoms. Children, women and the elderly are most likely to report constipation symptoms. (This does not mean men do not suffer from it - just that they do not report it as often). Most of the studies in children tend to have looked at chronic constipation (encopresis) and in general, constipation is not effectively managed. The incidence in the general population is 2-10% but among those with cancer 30% who receive vinc alkaloids and 50-95% of children receiving opioids. Some of the causes: decreased activity - immobility decreased nutritional or fluid intake environmental disruption of routines voluntary suppression of defecation urge embarrassment Sometimes the causes are related to pelvic tumors, scarring, adhesions, neurologic problems like spinal cord injury or compression, metabolic issues like diabetes, problems in the kidneys (uremia), elevated calcium (hypercalcemia), etc. And very often the cause is related to medications being taken like: Antineoplastic drugs (Vinca alkaloids, Carboplatin) Opioids Antiemetics (5HT, antagonists) Antacids Anticonvulsants Antihistamines Iron supplements Tricyclic antidepressants Neuroleptics Ms. Woolery discussed a variety of pharmacologic interventions and non-pharma such as dietary changes (dried fruit), dietary supplements (magnesium) exercise/playing, more fluids, tea, and reflexology. Ann's NOTE: We have a large section on constipation with information to be found here: http://annieappleseedproject.org/wommorofcona.html Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.