How to Recognize and Treat Constipation

Constipation in children can be very worrisome to parents especially when the child is displaying signs of struggle even after coming out from the restroom. Knowing the signs, causes and treatments are the best weapons parents can have.

When your child complains about experiencing painful passing of bowel or even bleeding bowel movements, chances are she is suffering from constipation. It sometimes comes with stomach pain and bloating and it may also appear with diarrhea. You may also see stool stains in your child's underwear.

Too much intake of milk is one possible cause of constipation. It can also be because of not taking enough liquid and fiber-rich foods. For so many children, holding bowel movements are the most common reason for their irregular bowel movements especially when they are at the stage of potty training as they tend to avoid the discomfort of this new way of passing, according to WebMD.

Certain levels of constipation can be treated at home by increasing the intake of liquid. To immediately relieve the struggles brought about by constipation giving your child concentrated fruit juice such as prune juice can help ease the pain.

Changing her diet to foods high in fiber can help better her digestion and prevent the condition from coming back being watchful however as excessive fiber may only worsen constipation. Fresh fruits can also be an alternative to too much carbohydrate intake, according to Bundoo.

There is a level of this condition that you need to be watchful about. Chronic constipation is a serious problem and will need an immediate medical attention from your physician.

Keep an eye on the following signs; losing weight, vomiting, having fever. When you see these signs, you may need to check on your child's anus. Tears around it which causes bleeding and possible rectal prolapsed or a part of the intestinal protrusion is showing are signs that you no longer have to treat it at home, according to Mayo Clinic.