If your child has a decrease in the frequency of her bowel movements, or has fewer than three bowel movements per week, she may be suffering from constipation. Constipation is often accompanied by hard, small, dry stools that are difficult to eliminate and require straining to pass them. Because the symptoms of constipation resemble other serious conditions, a visit to your child's physician is required for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Causes
Low-fiber diets or lack of fluids can be a common cause of constipation in young children. Also, many preschoolers are embarrassed to use school bathrooms so they hold it, rather than defecating, which leads to constipation. Toilet training can be a cause of constipation as well if your toddler is reluctant to stop wearing diapers, chooses the opportunity to assert his independence, or is stressed by the training. Children also forget to listen to their body's signals during play or school, leading to elimination problems. Medical conditions can cause constipation as well. Intestinal abnormalities, nervous system problems, endocrine issues and certain medications can all prevent routine bowel movements.
Symptoms
In addition to the lesser frequency of smaller, harder stools, constipation often includes abdominal bloating, cramps and pain. Your child may have a decreased appetite due to feeling full. You may notice her clenching her teeth and crossing her legs while trying not to use the bathroom. Her face may turn red as she tries to keep from passing a stool, or she may have fecal smears on her underpants. Passing hard stools can hurt your toddler, but they can also irritate the anal lining, causing tears that make bowel movements even more painful, leading to a cycle of additional constipation.
Diagnosis
The United States Department of Health and Human Services suggests that you ask your toddler's physician to examine your child if constipation continues beyond two weeks or if constipation is accompanied by fever, vomiting, weight loss, blood in stool, a swollen abdomen, cracks around the anus or if part of the intestine is coming out of the anus. Be prepared with information regarding frequency of bowel movements, when problems began, if any stressful events or big changes have taken place in your child's life, and what your child's diet consists of. The doctor may suggest diagnostic testing requiring an x-ray, enema or biopsy.
Treatment
Author and pediatrician Dr. William Sears suggests your child drink more water, eat more fiber from foods like whole grain bread, fruits and beans, exercise, and drink prune juice with pulp. Also, limit your child's intake of caffeinated drinks like soda, fast foods and whole milk, the latter of which she can have up to 16 ounces per day. Feed meals on a regular schedule and have her spend time on the toilet after meals regularly as well. Eating can stimulate bowel movements in 30 to 60 minutes, so plan meal times accordingly. Consult a physician if you have any concerns regarding your toddler's bowel habits.
