According to the Mayo Clinic, constipation in children is a common gastrointestinal problem characterized by infrequent bowel movements or hard, dry stools. Common causes include poor diet, medications and premature toilet training. There are some treatments for chronic constipation in children that parents and caregivers should be aware of.
Diet Modification
Not enough fiber-rich fruits and vegetables or fluid, or too much milk in a child's diet may cause constipation. Dietary modifications to alleviate chronic constipation include adding fruits, vegetables and other high-fiber foods into a child's diet. The outer skin of apples, peaches and pears contain insoluble fiber and should not be removed from the fruit prior to eating. Increasing a child's daily water intake will help increase water reabsorption into the colon and soften the stool, making having a bowel movement easier. Drinking prune or pear juice daily may also help to alleviate chronic constipation.
Lifestyle Modification
Children who are sedentary have a higher risk of developing constipation, reports the Mayo Clinic. Increasing a child's daily activities will help to naturally increase gastrointestinal motility and alleviate constipation. Encouraging children to use the toilet frequently throughout the day and immediately following meals may help them to adopt healthy bowel habits which can reduce chronic constipation.
Medication
Fiber supplements and stool softeners may be helpful in relieving chronic constipation in children. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, laxatives are frequently used to clear a fecal impaction and sometimes to restore regular bowel movements. Stool softeners and laxatives should only be used if recommended by a pediatrician.
