What underlying issue can lead to mechanical compression of the bladder in children?

Chronic constipation can lead to mechanical compression of the bladder in children due to the accumulation of stool in the rectum. When a child is constipated, the fecal material can become impacted, causing distension of the rectum. This distension exerts pressure on the bladder, which can interfere with normal bladder function. As a result, this can lead to symptoms such as urinary urgency, frequency, and even incontinence. The mechanical pressure can also contribute to urinary tract infections by affecting the bladder's ability to completely empty.

In contrast, excessive fluid intake, while it may lead to increased urinary output, does not directly cause compression of the bladder. A high protein diet is not typically linked with mechanical compression of the bladder; rather, it may have other metabolic effects. Neuromuscular disorders can affect bladder function and neurological control, but they are not primarily responsible for mechanical compression in the context of constipation.