Preschoolers who are hypersensitive to food may have difficult behavior

Washington: According to the study published in the Journal of Pediatrics, preschool children with chronic constipation and normal development have underlying sensory problems that lead to difficult grooming behaviors.

These children are often difficult to pick and may be overly sensitive to the textures, tastes or odors of foods. They may also have an exaggerated response to noises, bright lights, or other sensory stimuli.

"Our study is groundbreaking and reveals that chronic constipation in young children accompanies increased sensory sensitivity," said Dr. Mark Fishbein, lead author.

"In many cases, chronic constipation may be the first clue that the child also has sensory problems and could benefit from occupational therapy." Feeding problems due to sensory sensitivity are particularly common in these patients. children and they are best treated when children under five years of age the maladaptive behaviors become more entrenched, "added Dr. Fishbein.

In the study, Dr. Fishbein and colleagues evaluated differences in sensory processing patterns in 66 children aged 3 to 5 years with chronic constipation and a matched group of 66 controls.

They examined the correlation between children's sensory profiles and atypical toilet behaviors. They determined that children with chronic constipation exhibited an increased response to sensory stimuli and increased avoidance behaviors.

Increased oral sensory processing (sensitivity to textures, tastes or odors in foods) has emerged as the most important factor in predicting the child's tendency to behaviors such as not storing bowel movements or avoid the toilets in general.

"On the surface, the badociation between oral treatment and constipation may not seem intuitive. However, increased sensory sensitivity can create discomfort and lead to avoidance, and we observe this reaction both in the refusal to eat and in the toilet behaviors of children with chronic constipation. Feeding problems and constipation can occur as a result of sensory processing difficulties, "said Dr. Fishbein.

"Our study provides an extended toolkit for clinicians who care for children with chronic constipation, and comprehensive management of these children should include consideration of sensory issues and possible referral to occupational therapy." he added.

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