Often times toddlers and young children can struggle with constipation or hard bowel movements, and this is often a worry for parents. While this is something to monitor, it is important to realize what’s normal for one child may be different from what’s normal for another one. Read on to learn more about the uncomfortable topic of constipation, and tips for how to help parents.
Healthy Tip Tuesday is brought to you in partnership with Trinity Health Systems.
How often should children have a bowel movement:
Most children have them one or two times a day. Other children may go 2 to 3 days or longer before passing a normal stool. The more concerning indicator is if the child has pain or discomfort when they are trying to pass one at the three-day mark.
What Are the Symptoms?
Noting that infants are still learning how to pass bowel movements; therefore, they may look or act differently during the process. They may be red in the face, notably pushing hard, and even crying.
For young children
- Many days without normal bowel movements
- Hard stools that are difficult or painful to pass
- Abdominal pain, such as stomachaches, cramping, or nausea
- Rectal bleeding from tears called fissures
- Soiling
- Poor appetite
- Cranky behavior
What Causes Constipation?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) there are a number of things that lead to constipation in your child.
- Changes in diet
- Too much processed foods and a need for more nutrient-dense foods
- Not enough fiber
- Illness and loss his appetite
- Constipation may be a side effect of some medicines.
- Certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism(underactive thyroid gland).
- Diaper rash
- Pain when they try to go
- Behavioral aspects
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- Struggles with potty training
- The child doesn’t want to stop in the middle of a fun activity
- Seeking control and independence (ages 2-5)
- Embarrassment or uncomfortable using the public toilet when they are away from home.
- Various other stressors
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How is Constipation Treated?
- Talk with the doctor if this is ongoing. Tests may need to be run to diagnose the cause.
- Diet changes to add healthier foods that are richer in fiber.
- Add more water to their diet
- Possibility in medication changes if medication could be causing constipation.
- Engaging the child in the conversation, and letting them know what is going on, and that it is okay to talk about their feelings.
Remember, every child is different, and if there are concerns reach out to the primary care.
