Here are some signs that can indicate if your child is constipated.
- Infrequent bowel movements. Children should pass a soft poo, with a good amount, every day or at least every second day.
- Frequently bowel movements. (Yep – sorry, it can be really confusing). Pooing more than 3 times per day can mean that your child is not letting all the poo out.
- Hard, dry poo. When your child does have a bowel movement, pay attention to the consistency of the stool. If it is hard, dry, and difficult to pass, this may be a sign of constipation.
- Skid marks in underwear. This means there is poo waiting to get out but is stuck. A lot of parents think that skid marks means there child is not wiping well enough. A way of working out if this is the case is to wipe yourself and see if there is still skid marks.
- Large diameter of poo. kids poo should be about the same diameter as a 10 cent coin.
- Abdominal pain or discomfort: Constipation can cause abdominal pain or discomfort in children. They may complain of a stomachache or cramps.
- Smelly farts and poo.
- Loss of appetite: Constipation can cause a loss of appetite in some children. They may feel full or bloated even if they haven’t eaten much.
WHERE TO GET HELP
If you see any of these signs talk to your GP or Paediatrician, as soon as possible.
DO NOT TREAT THE SIGN OF CONSTIPATION WITH OUT TALKING TO A DOCTOR FIRST.
It is important to see a doctor before treating your child for constipation because the underlying cause of constipation may need to be diagnosed and treated appropriately.
A doctor can evaluate your child’s symptoms and medical history, perform a physical examination, and recommend appropriate testing, if necessary, to determine the extent of the constipation. Based on the diagnosis, the doctor can then recommend appropriate treatment, which may include di犀利士 etary changes, medications, or other interventions.
It is also important to note that some remedies that are safe for adults may not be safe for children, and dosage amounts need to be adjusted based on the child’s age and weight. Consulting a doctor before treating your child for constipation can help ensure that you are using safe and effective treatments that are appropriate for your child’s specific needs.
WHAT NEXT?
If your child has chronic constipation (long term treatment needed), it is worth while seeing a Paediatric Continence Nurse for ongoing care, education and therapy.
Amanda is a Peadiatric Continence Nurse and is available to support you and your child overcome this problem.