Hospital admissions for constipation among primary-age children in England and Wales have risen by 60% over the past decade, highlighting the significant impact of the condition.
According to NHS data, more than 44,000 children were admitted to hospital with constipation last year, with experts calling for greater awareness of the physical and emotional toll it can take.
“We shouldn’t be having that many children being treated for constipation in hospital,” said Prof. Monica Lakhanpaul, a consultant paediatrician at Whittington Health NHS Trust and University College London. “It’s hidden. People feel very embarrassed about it. People think they’ve done something wrong as a parent and they don’t seek early help.”
Constipation, often dismissed as a minor issue, can cause serious problems for children, including stomach pain, vomiting, and emotional distress. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic constipation, requiring long-term laxative treatment and retraining toilet habits.
Experts cite poor diet, dehydration, and anxiety as key contributors, with food poverty and the rising cost of living exacerbating the problem.
“Constipation is increasing in children. We know from the national diet survey that fibre intakes are not adequate, coupled with food poverty and the cost of living crisis,” said Rebecca McManamon, a consultant dietitian and spokesperson for the British Dietetic Association.
Meanwhile, limited access to healthcare and school toilet policies may be worsening the issue. Some families struggle to secure GP appointments, leading to delays in treatment, while strict school rules can discourage children from using the toilet when needed.
“To have positive toileting habits, you need access to toilets when you need to go,” Lakhanpaul warned.
Experts stress that early intervention is key, urging better support for families, improved school policies, and increased awareness to prevent unnecessary hospital admissions.
