Constipation is infrequent bowel movements and the stools become difficult to pass and are hard. It is a common problem in children. It occurs due to the slow movement of waste through the digestive tract.
What are the symptoms of constipation?
If your children show these symptoms:
- Bowel movements that are difficult to pass and are hard and dry
- Bowel movements that occur less than three times a week
- Having pain during bowel movement
- Stomach pain
- Blood on stool
- The child fears bowel movement because it will hurt.
- Child making faces, and trying hard to pass stool.
What could lead to constipation?
- Low fiber intake
- Routine changes
- Allergy to dairy products
- Medications
- Family history
- Withholding of stool by the child due to pain, not willing to use the toilet, ignoring the urge to play, etc
- Medical conditions such as anatomic malformation, metabolic or digestive system problems, etc
Who are at risk of having constipation?
Children who do not have an adequate intake of fiber or fluids, have a neurological condition, have a medical condition that affects the rectum or anus, have a sedentary lifestyle, and take certain medications.
When is the time to consult a doctor?
Chronic constipation could lead to many complications.
Consult a doctor if your child suffers from constipation that lasts longer than two weeks and if they are showing the following signs:
- Fever
- If the child is not eating
- Blood in the stool
- Abdominal swelling
- Weight loss
- Having pain while passing stool
- Rectal prolapsed
The treatment that could be provided includes:
- Over-the-counter fiber supplements
- Stool softeners
- Laxatives or enema
- Hospital enema, in severe cases.
Prolonged constipation can lead to anal fissures, rectal prolapse, and encopresis. Consult a paediatrician if your child suffers from chronic constipation. Dr. Monalisa Sahu is one of the best paediatrician. We care clinic is the best clinic in Gurugram for you to visit if your child suffers from constipation.
Contact us
House No. 60P, In Front of Ardee School, Ardee City, sec-52, Gurugram, Haryana
info@wecaregurugram.com
+91-1243505858, +91-9871079769, +91-8447375725, +91-9717094354
