potty training

My 7 year old niece is pooping her pants everyday.  She has been doing this for a long time.  She is very hyper as well.  What could be her problem?  If it is a medical or a psychological problem, what would be the official terminogy?

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Nannette,

Encopresis is the medical term for your niece's condition.

Probably the most frequent cause for encopresis is constipation, often requiring that the youngster's bowels ned to be cleaned out with a regimen prescribed by her pediatrician.

Has she ver not exhibited this condition, or has it been present since her toddler years? It may require psychological intervention, and referral for a psychological evaluation would be a reasonable thing to pursue.

[HVM M.D. - EV]

Dear Nanette,
   I would agree with my colleague's response with regard to your niece's "encopresis."
   I would definitely encourage her family to seek help from their child's pediatrician. Leaking of stool can be very concerning - in that the child's self esteem can be effected. If a child is leaking stool, he/she will smell badly - and other children will pick up on that very quickly.  It is important that  the leaking of stool be reversed - and that a regiment be established for regular bowel habits. Often - this involves counseling as well.
   Good luck -  Dr. EV