Constipation

How to check for signs of constipation:

When toddlers and young kids are able to talk and tell you that it is “hurting to go poop”, it is easy to realize that they are probably constipated. But when our children are between ages 0-2, they are not always able to express the pain and discomfort they may be feeling. For the most part, when babies are on baby food, the food is broken down to a point that they will not become constipated. Drinking milk and starting on whole foods is when we need to watch for these symptoms. So how are some of the ways that moms and dads can tell if their child is constipated when they are unable to express it?

*Check to see if their abdomen feels tight:

This may indicate that the stool is hard and having a hard time passing. Gas buildup will cause bloating of the stomach.

*Check to see if the child is having pebble-like stool:

This may indicate that the moisture from the stool passing through the intestines has absorbed and the child may not be getting enough fluid. This may also indicate that the child has not been receiving enough fiber in his or her diet.

*Check to see if there is any blood in the stool:

If you notice some small amounts of blight tinged blood (a couple drops), this may indicate the strain or difficultly the child has had passing the stool. This may indicate constipation.

 If there is more than the size of a dime of blood or it happens more than 1 or 2 times, notify your pediatrician immediately.

What to do if your child has constipation:

There are a few things that we can do as parents at home to help our kids resolve their constipation before we have to pay to see the doctor.

1. Increase fluids – This will help the stools become soft and pass more easily through the intestinal tract.

2. Increase fiber in diet – Increasing the fiber in your child’s diet can be a little difficult as they are just starting to eat and learn new foods, but some examples of fiber rich foods are: beans (green, black, kidney, lima), dark berries (blueberries, blackberries, raspberries),  and also cooking or giving foods with whole wheat or bran. Try to decrease the intake of fatty foods which can be a cause of constipation.

3. Encourage activity – Playing and running around helps stools to pass a little easier

4. If your child is potty trained, encourage regular potty time. Have your kids use the bathroom every 1-2 hours to help them get used to not “holding it in”. This can also be a cause for constipation.

 

If these suggestions are not working, you then may want to seek counseling from your pediatrician and possibly obtain a prescription for a stool softener. Also notify your pediatrician if your child has not had a bowel movement for 2 days.   

For more information, please visit http://children.webmd.com/constipation-treatment