Solution for fecal incontinence in children

Encopresis isn't the sort of medical problem making headlines, but there's no mistaking the quiet emotional toll it takes on children as school resumes across the country. Bright, vivacious boys and girls in elementary school are becoming quiet, withdrawn and ostracized. After all, children can be cruel and nobody wants to associate with the "smelly kid" sitting all alone. In truth, they aren't alone. One in every 33 children in every grade school could be suffering from the same disorder of the bowels. Retired Michigan psychologist Dr. Robert Collins has made it his mission to help children and their parents escape isolation and know that help is available.

"Encopresis is known as the 'dirty little secret' because people aren't willing to discuss the issue of fecal incontinence in children age four and up," said Collins, a psychologist with nearly four decades of experience. "Parents often feel like they've failed in their responsibilities, or they suspect their child is being stubborn when soiled pants are discovered. Nothing could be further from the truth. Encopresis is a bowel disorder that can be successfully treated."