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| CONSTIPATION |
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Generally speaking, constipation refers to hard stools which are difficult to pass. It is
not the number of bowel movements each day that determine whether or not a baby or child
has constipation. A healthy infant may occasionally pass a stool of normal consistency at
intervals of as long as 36-48 hours. If such a baby has no discomfort or other symptoms,
nothing needs to be done. However, if the baby is constipated right from birth or soon
thereafter, the baby must be examined by a doctor to rule out a tight anal passage or any
other organic cause which may be responsible for the constipation.
There are various causes of constipation which can usually be treated. The commonest
causes are :
a. |
Insufficient intake of fluids. Correcting the fluid intake
and addition of fruit juices in the diet should help. |
b. |
Diet being deficient in fibre. Children
eating too much of refined food (junk food) usually suffer from constipation. Correction
of diet and adding fibre in food by taking fruits and raw food like salads help in
relieving the constipation. |
c. |
Poor food intake because of certain
illnesses can also result in constipation. |
d. |
Faulty and improper toilet training can
also cause constipation, which in turn may cause cracks round the child's anus (anal
fissure) because of the hard stool. The anal fissure further prevents the child from
passing stool because of the pain. A vicious circle is thus established, which worsens the
constipation. An application of a local anaesthetic cream at the anal region reduces the
discomfort in passing the stool. These children should eat high residue foods and drink
plenty of fluids. A mild laxative or a suppository sometimes helps in providing relief
from constipation. |
A child with persistent constipation should be properly examined
by the doctor.
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