How to help our autistic 13-year-old-son who has a withholding issue and gets senna?
We have a 13-year-old son with autism. He has withholding issues of poop.
He is now under treatment with 15 ml x 3 a day accompanied with suppository, otherwise he won't go. I tried to give him food that's rich in fiber, but he won't because he is not comfortable with his condition. Tummy distention, though he already passed stool at night. I tried to connect with psychiatrists or doctors with experience in this situation and all I can hear is there is a waitlist of 6-9 months.
I just need help on like what we call treatment. Basically, rewards, potty 2 times a day, massage, etc. but it's kind of draining for now. He's with senna for 2 months already. I am aware that it will take time. I'm concerned with the side effects of senna. Any help with these issues is greatly appreciated.
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I taught autistic students for 30+ years, and I hesitate to give you advice. These kids are so individual that there is no 'one size fits all' solution.
We found that not only was there discomfort associated with actual defecation, but things like the toilet itself could be a problem. (Too high, too cold, too noisy -- the room 'echoed', at school -- florescent lighting -- the flickering was aggravating.) So you might try a commode, a wooden seat, low light, dampening the sound -- perhaps with music. We used a potty, but it was built for us by the school's special needs department. It angled back and had vinyl cushions -- seat and back rest that were washable. The potty was low and we covered a disability-sized washroom stall with blankets and a rug, turned out the washroom lights and used a flashlight (there were no electrical outlets -- a dimmer might work for you) for more ambient lighting. We brought in music, played at the volume our student prefered. We ran water as well.
These are general ideas. Honestly, advice over the internet is nearly impossible. I found that what worked this time, often need 'tweaking' for the next time.
On edit: If your child go to a school with a special needs or resource teacher, that person might be your best bet for hands on experience. Rewards and praise are fine, and anything the doctor has suggested -- but this is uncomfortable for everyone. I'd get on a wait list and tell the receptionist that you'd take any appointment/ cancellations for even one session for advice. I well understand your frustration and fear that your child is not getting the help he needs.
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