Constipation

Constipation in children is a common problem. A constipated child has infrequent bowel movements or hard, dry stools.

Common causes include early toilet training and changes in diet. Fortunately, most cases of constipation in children are temporary.

Encouraging your child to make simple dietary changes — such as eating more fiber-rich fruits and vegetables and drinking more water — can go a long way toward alleviating constipation. If your child's doctor approves, it may be possible to treat a child's constipation with laxatives.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of constipation in children may include:

• Less than three bowel movements a week
• Bowel movements that are hard, dry and difficult to pass
• Pain while having a bowel movement
• Stomach pain
• Traces of liquid or pasty stool in your child's underwear — a sign that stool is backed up in the rectum
• Blood on the surface of hard stool

If your child fears that having a bowel movement will hurt, he or she may try to avoid it. You may notice your child crossing his or her legs, clenching his or her buttocks, twisting his or her body, or making faces when attempting to hold stool.

Category : Constipation