If your child has painful bowel movements, then they may have constipation. Here’s what you need to know about constipation and your child.

Constipation Symptoms

  • Does the baby have pain in their stomach?
  • Are they bloated?
  • Is there bleeding with the bowel movements?
  • Are there any soiling accidents?

If you see any of these signs, then your child may be suffering from constipation.

Is it Diarrhea?

It’s often easy for parents to confuse constipation with diarrhea. The main difference between the two is that your child will pass liquid stool if they’re suffering from diarrhea. If it’s constipation, their stool will be dry and hard.

Causes for Constipation

If your child is restraining their bowel movements, constipation may result. This often happens when kids are stressed about potty-training. A diet that’s low in fiber or lack enough liquids may lead to constipation as well. Is your child taking any medication? Constipation may be a side-effect.

Treatments

  • Use stool softeners. One way to treat toddler constipation in Phoenix is to get stool softeners. Suppositories can help soften the stool and works for kids who can’t swallow pills. It would be best to talk to your doctor before you use these products.
  • Fiber supplements. Loading up your child’s diet with fiber can help. However, keep in mind that more fiber requires increasing your child’s water intake. Otherwise, too much fiber without fluids can lead to more digestive problems.
  • Laxative or enema. If there’s a blockage, your pediatric doctors may recommend a laxative or enema to remove it. Do not undertake this step without consulting your child’s doctor about

Prevention

There are plenty of ways to prevent constipation from happening in the first place.

  • Keep them hydrated. If your child drinks a lot of fluids, that’s going to soften their stool. However, don’t give them too much milk, since that could contribute to their constipation.
  • Switch to a high-fiber diet. Offer your child high-fiber foods. This will help reduce the gas and bloating that can happen if your child suffers from constipation again.
  • Be supportive. Reward your child for their efforts to make bowel movements. Stickers, a game or a book may fit the bill. Be supportive so that potty-training won’t stress them out.

Know more when you ask your doctor. Get treatment for toddler constipation in Phoenix at Pediatrix.