Encopresis in Children with Autism

Encopresis, or fecal incontinence, refers to psychological or physical disorders and is characterized by the following symptoms:

• Lack of awareness of the need to use the bathroom;
• Crises, emotional overload;
• Intentional or unintentional defecation in inappropriate places;
• Episodes of encopresis occurring at least once a month for 3 months or more;
• The child is older than 4 years old, or the developmental level of the child with autism corresponds to this age;
• Incidents cannot be explained by the physiological effects of food, medications, or other health conditions, except for constipation.

Fecal incontinence in children with autism is a common symptom observed not only in early childhood but also during adolescence. Solving this problem requires a comprehensive approach, including both instrumental examination and psychological and behavioral correction.

Types of Encopresis in Autistic Children

Experts identify the following types of fecal incontinence in children with autism:

• Alternation between incontinence and constipation, which has been confirmed during medical examination;
• Without medical constipation or for reasons unrelated to insufficient sphincter control (psychological incontinence).

Fecal incontinence may occur for several reasons, considering various factors:

• Neurological features: Children with autism often exhibit anomalies in the central nervous system, which may affect control over bowel functions. As a result, the process of defecation regulation may be disrupted.
• Behavioral features: Children with autism find it difficult to understand and perceive social norms and rules, such as the necessity of using the toilet. They may also fail to recognize the signals indicating the need to use the bathroom.
• Cognitive impairments: Impairments in perception and information processing in children with autism make it harder for them to understand and learn everyday skills, such as using the toilet.
• Motor problems: Children with autism may experience difficulties with coordination, which also hampers control over bowel function.
• Communication problems: Speech and communication difficulties in children with autism make it challenging for them to express their needs, such as the need to use the bathroom.
• Genetic and physiological factors: Some studies suggest that encopresis in children with autism may be related to genetic anomalies or peculiarities in the development of the gastrointestinal system.

How Encopresis in Children with Autism is Diagnosed

Diagnosing encopresis in children with autism requires a comprehensive approach, which includes the following stages:

• Medical assessment: Doctors conduct an examination to rule out physical diseases that could cause encopresis.
• Assessment of behavioral aspects: It is necessary to determine whether the issue is related to the child’s behavior, attitude toward using the toilet, or stress.
• Psychological diagnosis: It is important to consider the behavioral and cognitive features of the child with autism.

Methods of Treatment and Correction of Encopresis in Autistic Children

Treatment and correction methods for encopresis in autistic children vary from behavioral therapy to medication. The success of treatment directly depends on the timely consultation with specialists and parental support.

Correction of Autism and its Manifestations through Stem Cell Transplantation

Over the last decade, stem cell transplants for children with ASD have received more and more positive feedback from patients in various countries. The Mardaleishvili Medical Center successfully practices stem cell transplantation for children with autism. After the transplant, the child receives a powerful stimulus for the development of cognitive functions and the correction of behavior and ASD manifestations.

Do you know someone who would benefit from this information? Share this with those in need of effective autism treatment.