[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Constipation in children is common. In fact, according to a study in the Journal of Pediatric Health Care, it is estimated that
1 out of every 20 children will visit the doctor because of constipation. Constipation isn’t usually a serious medical issue, but it can be uncomfortable. Fortunately, constipation in children is usually temporary and there are things you can do to help your child become more regular.
Constipation in Children: Learn the Signs & Remedies
Why do children get constipated?
Children can become constipated for various reasons. Sometimes, starting toilet training before a child is ready can make the child afraid of having a bowel movement, which in turn can lead to constipation.
Another cause is a change in diet. This can happen at any time but is especially common when first
starting a baby on solids. A milk allergy or having too many dairy products included in a child’s diet can also
cause constipation.
Stressful events -- such as a change in routine or illness -- can also lead to constipation in children. If a child is in a new environment, they may also hold back a bowel movement, which can later
lead to constipation.
The most common cause of constipation in children, though, is voluntary withholding. Often, when a child experiences a painful bowel movement, they may later decide to "not go" in order to avoid experiencing that sensation again. A child may contract their muscles and wiggle or fidget in order to avoid having a bowel movement. As the rectum becomes accustomed to holding larger masses of stool, the urge to defecate passes. However, the child may become more irritable and experience cramps as more time passes without a bowel movement.
How do you know if your child is constipated?
A
child is considered constipated if they have fewer than two bowel movements a week, if their stools are hard and dry or if it’s difficult or painful for them to pass stool. It's good to be aware of your child’s usual pattern of bowel movements so you can identify when there is a change. Some children poop more or less frequently than others and are not necessarily constipated. However, if you notice that your child is defecating less often, is complaining of abdominal pain or discomfort or if their stools are harder and more difficult to pass, your child is probably constipated.
Sometimes, your child may tell you that they still feel full after having used the bathroom. This can also be a sign of constipation. It’s also possible to find your child’s underwear stained by stool. This can happen when fresher, loose stool bypasses the harder pieces and leaks out of the rectum.
It’s worth noting that constipation in children can sometimes cause them to lose bladder control. This can lead to daytime or nighttime wetting. This should not be considered a regression in toilet training and usually resolves when the constipation is relieved.
What should you do if your child is constipated?
Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do to try to help relieve constipation in children.
One solution is to increase the amount of
fiber in your child’s diet. If your child isn’t used to fiber-rich foods, try introducing them slowly so they don’t become bloated or gassy. Fruits and vegetables;
whole grain foods and bran
cereals;
beans and
nuts are all good sources of fiber.
But don’t forget the water! Children need to drink enough in order to relieve constipation. Natural
fruit and vegetable juices can also be good sources of hydration.
If your child avoids bowel movements, try building
a healthy bathroom routine. Have them sit on the toilet for 5-10 minutes after each meal.
In addition to dietary changes and building a routine, you may try managing constipation with a child-safe laxative or stool softener. (Laxatives can become habit forming and should only be used upon the advice and under direction of a medical practitioner.) Magnesium can act as a natural stool softener.† Supplements containing probiotics can help bulk up stool and make them pass through the intestines faster.† Supplements containing herbs like fennel seed and slippery elm can also be helpful in relieving occasional constipation.†
If constipation in children lasts for more than two weeks, or if there is no improvement after changing a child’s diet and/or using supplements, you should speak to a medical professional.
How can you help prevent constipation in children?
The best way to avoid constipation in children is by maintaining a balanced diet including plenty of the foods listed above, including fresh fruits and vegetables as well as other fiber-rich foods. In addition, it’s important to make sure children drink enough water and natural juices and avoid sugar sweetened drinks as much as possible. A diet high in fat and low in fiber, (such as junk food and soft drinks,) may contribute to digestive issues.
Being active is also a good way to prevent constipation.
Physical activity helps keep the bowels active and can even help move stool along until it is eliminated.
Young children may need reminders to use the bathroom. Children can sometimes become too busy playing and may ignore body signals that it’s time to go. Try to make sure your child has easy access to a restroom, especially at times when they may be at risk for developing constipation. This can be times of increased stress like the beginning of the school year or other major events. Risk for constipation is also higher when a child’s diet changes. A good bathroom routine can help manage constipation.
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