Understanding Constipation in Children
Constipation in children is much bothersome as it makes the bay disturbed and perplexed. The bowel system of the new born is often changing and may respond to the transition from the breastfeeding stage to starting solid food. Usually the newborns who are only breastfed have soiled nappy at almost every change. This is quite normal at this stage. Often constipation arises out of the introduction of solid food. In some cases, the babies will not have bowels continuously for 8-10 days.
There is absolutely no need to wonder if the baby does not remain calm at that time. Bowels act on the natural phenomenon of getting off with those that is taken in. However if this does not function promptly, the whole system gets upset and it effects the physical and mental state of the child.
Understanding constipation is the foremost step in treating it. If your baby puts a lot of effort while passing stool and the stool is too dry or hard, you can be sure that your baby is suffering from constipation. Constipation may be caused by some food, especially certain milk formulas are known to cause constipation. Whenever the babies constipate, remember that the need is for the fluid intake. So, feed them with plenty of fluids instead of trying out with different solid food. This fluid feed will prevent having dehydration. Dehydration in children poses serious threat in newborns.
A quick and easy remedy to help constipation is to introduce little cooled boiled water to the child’s diet. This could be given after feed or before their sleeping time. Also, give a gentle massage onto baby’s stomach in a clockwise direction. Do not neglect to feed him with fluids. If the baby is 3 months old or more, you may even feed him with diluted fruit juice which may loosen the bowels. If this does not help, try to change the formula that has been given to him. If you find that theses remedies are not fruitful, then the very next step is to consult a paediatrician without delay. There are medications to improve bowels in children. Let your baby relax and enjoy after a long tedious struggle.
