An Ayurvedic Perspective for Constipation in Children – A Case Report

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

Background: In Ayurveda, Constipation, often referred to as Vibandha or Baddha Purisha, signifies an inhibi-tion or blockage in the Purishavaha Srotas, i.e. Sangha, a term denoting the obstruction of channels responsible for the smooth movement and elimination of stool within the body. It is a frequently encountered issue in the paediatric population and significantly impacts the physical well-being, physiological functioning and overall quality of life of affected children. This disorder manifests as Purisha Nigraha (stool obstruction), Pakvashaya Shoola (abdominal pain), Kashtaprada Malapravrutti (painful defecation), Grathitha Malapravrutti (hardened stool) and Atopa (infrequent bowel movements). Many children experience constipation due to habitual factors, inadequate fibre and water intake, or changes in dietary and lifestyle patterns. This can mainly manifest when they begin school or daycare as they may feel unwilling to ask for bathroom breaks due to a lack of toilet train-ing and the unfamiliar environment at school. Various gastrointestinal and other medical conditions can ultimate-ly lead to the development of constipation making it a consequential symptom rather than a standalone disease. Material and Methods: A case of a 5-year-old male child having a history of constipation for the last 7 months. The patient was under medication for the same and got no relief. Parents came to us with complaints of painful defecation with incomplete evacuation for the last 7 days. Results: The patient was treated with Matra Basti along with oral medicine which gave effective results from the 3rd day of the 2nd sitting of Matra Basti. Proper counselling along with modifications to Aahara and Vihara was advised. Conclusion: This case demonstrates the potential of Ayurvedic treatment in managing constipation.