A child is considered constipated when he difficulty having bowel movements. Constipated children usually have less than three bowel movements in a week. When they do manage to have a bowel movement, the stools have a tendency to be dry, hard and large. Although it can be uncomfortable to children experiencing it, constipation is usually not a cause for concern. Most times, it can be easily remedies through diet and exercise.
Symptoms
Children who suffer from constipation may have different symptoms, depending on their age. Newborns may be constipated if they have less than one bowel movement per day and the stools are hard. Older children who are constipated usually have hard stools every three to four days, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Other symptoms that children of all ages suffering from constipation can have are abdominal discomfort and bloating, and blood in their stools.
Causes
There are different causes for constipation is children. Stool retention is common for toddlers who are potty training and learning how to control their bowel movements. Older kids may hold in bowel movements because they do not want to use bathrooms outside the home. Stool retention can also be caused by emotional problems. It can can lead to severe constipation and, consequently, more serious complications with the bowels. Other causes of constipation include not drinking enough fluids, lack of exercise, not eating enough fiber or eating new foods.
At-Home Remedies
Pediatric doctor William Sears encourages parents to help their children drink a lot of fluid More fluids in child's diet puts more fluids in her bowels, lessening constipation.
Eating plenty of high-fiber foods such as whole-grain breads and crackers as well as fruits and vegetables can also be effective in decreasing constipation. Exercise also helps get the bowels moving, which can help with constipation. Dr. Sears recommends natural laxatives, such as prune juice, psyllium husk or flax oil. Talk with your child's doctor about which remedy is best for your child.
Prevention
To prevent constipation in your child, make sure she drinks plenty of fluid, has a fiber-rich diet and exercises regularly. You child likely has a certain time of day when she has bowel movements, so encourage her to use the bathroom at that times every day to establish a routine. According to the KidsHealth website, having set bathroom times, preferably after meals, could be especially beneficial for kids who withhold their stools. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child's bowel movements or if she continues to experience constipation, consult a doctor.
