When a little one is struggling with constipation, it can be nearly as painful for the parents to witness their child in such discomfort. There are several options to get things moving smoothly again when it comes to your child's bowel movements, and making stools more comfortable to pass. Stool softeners can be an effective treatment for children straining to go "number two." Always discuss stool softener use with a pediatrician before administering them.
Constipation
Your child may suffer from hard, dry stools --- which are a sign of constipation --- for many reasons. For example, your child may not be drinking enough fluids or eating enough fiber, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, or NDDIC. Many children may be anxious or nervous about having a bowel movement away from home, so they ignore the urge and become constipated. Or they could be having just too much fun playing to head to the bathroom when they need to, adds the NDDIC.
Stool Softeners
Stool softeners are medications that are available over-the-counter to ease constipation. Stool softeners are available in many forms, including liquids and pills. Generally, they're recommended for people who shouldn't push and strain to pass their stools, but they can also be recommended for children who are having a tough time with bowel movements. Stool softeners soften hard, dry stools by adding moisture to the stools, which may make having a bowel movement easier and less painful.
Function
Your child's pediatrician may suggest that you give your child an over-the-counter stool softener if your child has pain while trying to pass hard stools, and particularly if your child avoids going to the bathroom out of fear that it will hurt. Your child's pediatrician may also recommend a laxative to help with your child's constipation. A laxative can pull moisture into stools to encourage a bowel movement, or lubricate the stool so that it passes more easily, says FamilyDoctor.org.
Use
Always follow the instructions on the package or your doctor's instructions carefully. Generally, the National Center for Biotechnology Information, or NCBI, says that you should give your child a stool softener at night. Have your child drink a glass of water with a pill, or mix the liquid in with a little bit of juice. If your child is taking the syrup form, he should just drink the syrup alone, not mixed with any other liquid. You should notice an improvement in your child's stools within 3 days. Don't give your child stool softeners for longer than a week -- head back to the pediatrician if the medication is not working, says the NCBI.
Diet Changes
Changing your child's diet can help make stools softer and ease constipation, says FamilyDoctor.org It's important to make sure that your child drinks plenty of fluids --- when she's constipated, FamilyDoctor.org suggests adding a bit of prune juice to her water. Increase her dietary fiber by offering plenty of fruits and vegetables for snacks, cereal that contains bran, and whole-wheat instead of white flour breads.
Calling the Doctor
Occasional constipation isn't usually problematic, but the NDDIC says that you should schedule a visit with the pediatrician if your child's stool contains blood, or if he's vomiting or running a fever. Other signs that warrant a call to the doctor include a swollen belly, losing weight, spotting something sticking out from the child's anus, or visible sores or wounds around the anus.
