ChamberPediatric Constipation · শিশুর কোষ্ঠকাঠিন্য
Constipation in babies and children means passing hard, infrequent stools that may be painful. It is very common and usually not serious, and most children improve with simple changes to diet, fluids and toilet habits — with a doctor's help when needed.
What is childhood constipation?
Constipation is when a child has hard, dry stools, goes less often than usual, or finds it painful or difficult to pass stool. Sometimes a child holds in stool because passing it hurt before, which can make the problem worse. It can affect babies, toddlers and older children.
Symptoms
Signs of constipation in a child can include:
- Hard, dry or large stools that are difficult or painful to pass
- Fewer than three bowel movements a week, or a clear drop from usual
- Tummy pain, bloating and reduced appetite
- Straining, holding behaviour, or small smears of soiling in underwear
Causes and risk factors
Common causes include not enough fibre or fluid, changes in diet such as starting solids or cow's milk, withholding stool, toilet-training stress, illness or a change in routine. Less commonly, an underlying medical condition is involved, which a doctor can check for.
Diagnosis
A doctor usually diagnoses constipation from the history and a gentle examination of the tummy. Tests are not normally needed, but a doctor may do them if symptoms are severe, started very early in a baby, or there are other concerning signs.
Treatment
Treatment starts with more fluids and fibre, regular toilet time and encouragement. A doctor may recommend a child-safe laxative for a period to soften stools and rebuild a comfortable routine. Always use any medicine in children only as advised by a doctor.
Prevention
Offer plenty of water, fruits, vegetables and whole grains suitable for the child's age, keep an active routine, and make toilet time relaxed and regular. Avoid pressure or punishment around toileting, as this can lead to holding behaviour.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if constipation lasts more than a couple of weeks, is severe or painful, or if there is blood in the stool, vomiting, weight loss, poor growth, or constipation in a very young baby. These need a proper check by a paediatrician.
Doctors who treat Pediatric Constipation
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Common medicines prescribed
Frequently asked questions
How often should my child poo?
It varies a lot between children, from several times a day to every couple of days. What matters more is whether the stool is hard and painful or there is a clear change from your child's usual pattern.
Can I give my child laxatives at home?
Only use laxatives in children on a doctor's advice and at the recommended dose. A doctor can recommend a safe option and how long to use it while you improve diet and routine.
What foods help with constipation?
Water and fibre-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains generally help. For babies the right approach depends on age and feeding, so check with a doctor before big diet changes.
When is constipation serious?
Blood in the stool, vomiting, weight loss, poor growth, severe pain, or constipation in a newborn or very young baby need prompt medical assessment.