DIAGNOSIS
To diagnose encopresis, your child’s doctor will ask many questions about the medical history, toilet history, lifestyle, habits, behavior, and medications taken. The doctor will perform a physical exam to ensure the child’s health as well as the status of the rectum, colon, and anus. He or she may insert a gloved finger to the child’s rectum to know the stool’s consistency. X-rays of the abdomen may also be performed to see of stool has stuck in the colon, or if the colon and rectum are enlarged. A special kind of x-ray called a barium enema may be done, in which a tube is inserted into the rectum, and the colon slowly fills up with barium. This may be done to diagnose the child’s symptoms.
TREATMENT
Treatments for encopresis can be done at home with the help of your child’s health care professionals. The parents must record the child’s medications and bowel movements during the treatment. This is done to know if treatment is working or not.
There are also many ways to treat encopresis. Ensure your child can fully empty the colon during defecation , maintain regular bowel habits, and use stool softeners. When encopresis is severe, the doctor may need to remove the stool manually. Laxatives must be given to the child to produce regular soft bowel movements.
Treatments for encopresis includes behavioral techniques, training your child, and maintaining a good habit. The treatment duration will depend on the child. Usually, it will take at least several months.
