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Painful Bowel Movement


Question

What could cause a painful bowel movement in a child with CdLS?

Answer of our experts

Pain during the production of a bowel movement is unusual in children. Fissures (cracks) or abscesses (pus pockets) can occur in or around the rectum, but might present with bleeding seen in the stool, or pain with sitting down as well. Hemorrhoids are uncommon in children but can cause pain in adults. Constipation may occur in CdLS and could lead to any of these problems. Physical examination should be able to detect any of these findings however none of these have been seen in a higher incidence in CdLS. An upper GI involves dye being swallowed and will not detect lower gastrointestinal problems. A barium enema involves dye being injected into the rectum, and may detect rare gastrointestinal problems lower in the GI tract

TK 7-13-10

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Recommendation(s)

Pain and Behaviour

R18
As pain can easily remain unrecognised in a child with CdLS, all care providers should be aware of the different manifestations and the possible sources of pain. Specific tools to assess pain are recommended.

Recommendation(s)

Constipation of the bowels (Obstipation)

R31
Constipation is present in almost half of all individuals with CdLS and should be treated as in the general population.

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Please take note that the Ask the Expert service is comprised of volunteer professionals in various areas of focus. Answers are not considered a medical, behavioral, or educational consultation. Ask the Expert is not a substitute for the care and attention your child’s personal physician, psychologist, educational consultant, or social worker can deliver.

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