Quality of Life Children with Constipation in Dr. Soetomo Hospital
Arif Suryadana Saputra1, Alpha Fardah Athiyyah2*, Brian Eka Rachman3
Abstract
Background: Constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder in children, often leading to discomfort, pain, and decreased quality of life. It not only impacts physical health but also affects emotional, social, and school-related functions. Despite available treatments, many children continue to suffer from chronic constipation, which can persist into adolescence. This study aims to assess the quality of life in pediatric patients with constipation at Dr. Soetomo Hospital, using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) to measure the extent of the condition’s impact. Objectives: The primary purpose of this thesis is to assess how constipation affects physical, emotional, social, and academic functioning in children. Additionally, the study seeks to identify correlations between the severity of constipation symptoms and quality of life scores across different age groups and to provide data that can inform improved management strategies. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on pediatric patients aged 2-18 years diagnosed with constipation based on ROME IV criteria at Dr. Soetomo Hospital. Data were collected through the PedsQL questionnaire, which evaluates various domains of quality of life, including physical, emotional, social, and school functioning. A total sampling technique was used, with data gathered over a period from July to September 2024. Results: The overall Quality of Life (QoL) scores for children aged 2-18 years with constipation, as measured by the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), indicate a significant impact on multiple aspects of their daily lives. The total Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) score across all participants was 65.5, showing a moderate reduction in overall well-being due to constipation. Physical functioning was notably affected, with a mean score of 68. Emotional functioning scored lower, reflecting emotional challenges such as frustration and anxiety, with an average score of 62. Social functioning remained relatively better at 73, suggesting that despite the physical and emotional toll, social interactions were less impacted. However, school functioning was the most affected domain, with an average score of 57, indicating significant disruptions in academic performance and concentration. Conclusion: Constipation has a profound impact on the overall quality of life of pediatric patients, affecting not only their physical health but also their emotional well-being and social and academic performance. Effective management of constipation should therefore incorporate not only medical treatment but also interventions that address these broader aspects to improve the children’s overall well-being. Further research is needed to explore long-term strategies for improving the quality of life in children suffering from chronic constipation.
Keywords
pediatrics; constipation; PedsQL; quality of life; Rome IV; children.
Cite This Article
Saputra, A. S., Athiyyah, A. F., Rachman, B. E. (2024). Quality of Life Children with Constipation in Dr. Soetomo Hospital. International Journal of Scientific Advances (IJSCIA), Volume 5| Issue 6: Nov-Dec 2024, Pages 1639-1644, URL: https://www.ijscia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Volume5-Issue6-Nov-Dec-No.783-1639-1644.pdf
Volume 5 | Issue 6: Nov – Dec 2024
