What to Do When Your Child Suffers from Persistent Constipation?

Constipation in young children is a common issue that worries many parents. When a child experiences prolonged constipation, bowel movements become difficult, affecting their health and overall development. So, what are the causes, and what should parents do to resolve this condition? Let’s explore the details in this article.

• 1. Causes of Persistent Constipation in Children
• 1.1. Low-Fiber Diet
• 1.2. Habit of Holding in Bowel Movements
• 1.3. Impact of Formula Milk
• 1.4. Lack of Physical Activity
• 1.5. Imbalance in Gut Microbiota
• 2. How to Relieve Prolonged Constipation in Children
• 2.1. Adjusting Diet for Better Digestion
• 2.2. Establishing a Regular Bowel Routine
• 2.3. Encouraging More Physical Activity
• 2.4. Using Probiotics to Support Digestion
• 2.5. Abdominal Massage to Stimulate Bowel Movements
• 3. When to Take Your Child to the Doctor?
• 4. Preventing Constipation in Children
• 5. Conclusion

1. Causes of Persistent Constipation in Children

Constipation occurs when a child has fewer than three bowel movements per week, with hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. Some primary causes of prolonged constipation in children include:

1.1. Low-Fiber Diet

• The child consumes little to no vegetables, fruits, or fiber-rich foods.
• The diet includes excessive processed foods, fast food, sweets, and sugary snacks.
• Insufficient water intake leads to dry, hard stools, making bowel movements difficult.

1.2. Habit of Holding in Bowel Movements

• Children may hold in their bowel movements because they are too focused on playing and don’t want to take a break.
• Some children fear the pain of passing hard stools, leading to anxiety and intentional withholding.

1.3. Impact of Formula Milk

• Some types of formula contain high protein content, making digestion harder and leading to firmer stools compared to breastfed babies.
• If a child has a cow’s milk allergy or lactose intolerance, their digestive system may be affected, increasing the risk of constipation.

1.4. Lack of Physical Activity

• Children who are sedentary, spend excessive time watching TV, playing on phones, or do not get enough exercise, may experience reduced bowel motility.

1.5. Imbalance in Gut Microbiota

• Long-term antibiotic use can destroy beneficial bacteria, reducing digestion efficiency and nutrient absorption.

2. How to Relieve Prolonged Constipation in Children

If a child has chronic constipation, parents can apply the following measures to improve the condition:

2.1. Adjusting Diet for Better Digestion

• Increase fiber intake: Add more vegetables and fruits such as bananas, papaya, avocado, apples, and pears to the daily diet.
• Ensure adequate water intake: Water helps soften stools and supports digestion. Children aged 1-3 years need about 1-1.3 liters of water per day.
• Choose suitable formula milk: If constipation is suspected due to formula milk, parents can switch to a high-fiber formula or consult a doctor for recommendations.

2.2. Establishing a Regular Bowel Routine

• Encourage the child to use the toilet at a fixed time each day, such as after breakfast or dinner.
• Create a comfortable environment, avoid forcing the child, and ensure they sit in the correct posture on the potty or toilet.

2.3. Encouraging More Physical Activity

• Exercise stimulates bowel movements and improves digestion.
• Children should engage in activities like running, swimming, cycling, or light daily exercises.

2.4. Using Probiotics to Support Digestion

• Probiotics contain beneficial bacteria that help balance gut microbiota, improve digestion, and soften stools.
• Parents should consult a doctor to choose the right probiotic supplement for their child.

2.5. Abdominal Massage to Stimulate Bowel Movements

• Gently massage the child’s abdomen in a clockwise direction with warm hands to stimulate bowel movements.
• Perform this massage for about 5-10 minutes daily to help ease bowel movements.

3. When to Take Your Child to the Doctor?

If the above remedies do not improve the child's constipation or if there are unusual symptoms, parents should seek medical attention. Warning signs include:

• Constipation lasting over two weeks without improvement.
• Presence of blood in stool or significant pain during bowel movements.
• Weight loss, loss of appetite, or prolonged fatigue.
• Bloated or distended abdomen with severe cramping pain.

A doctor may prescribe appropriate laxatives, conduct tests for underlying digestive issues, or recommend dietary adjustments.

4. Preventing Constipation in Children

To prevent prolonged constipation, parents should maintain healthy habits for their children:

• Ensure sufficient fiber intake from vegetables and fruits.
• Encourage daily water consumption.
• Establish a consistent toilet routine.
• Promote regular physical activity.
• Avoid overuse of antibiotics unless necessary.

5. Conclusion

Chronic constipation in children can cause discomfort and hinder their overall development. Therefore, parents should focus on adjusting their diet, encouraging physical activity, building healthy toilet habits, and incorporating probiotics for better digestion. If constipation persists despite these efforts, consulting a doctor is essential to ensure timely intervention.

We hope this article helps you understand the causes and solutions for constipation in children. If you find this information useful, share it with other parents to help their little ones stay healthy and happy!