What Do You Do To Treat Constipation In Children?

Constipation in children is a condition that can cause great concern to parents. Although it is one of the most common problems in children, it is also one of the main reasons for a visit to the doctor.

It is not considered a disease. However, it can also cause other digestive problems that will make your child feel unwell. In addition, it can last for a long time or become more frequent, eventually requiring medical treatment.

Fortunately, constipation in children can almost always be resolved with dietary changes and some natural treatments. For this reason, today we would like to take a look at some of the main symptoms and treatment plans for this condition. Find out what they are!

What is Constipation in Children?

Constipation in children occurs when the regular frequency of bowel movements decreases. It can be difficult to detect in children because their bowel movements change as they develop.

In general, we can say that if you have bowel movements less than three times a week, or if your stools are hard and dry, it could be an indication of constipation.

This problem can affect babies who are only a few months old, as well as children who are older. It can also be acute or chronic, depending on how it manifests and how long it lasts. The problem is acute when it occurs over a period of time and is chronic when it persists for up to a year.

Symptoms of Constipation in Children

You need to know your child’s habits well to recognize the symptoms of constipation. It should be a clear sign if the number of times they go to the bathroom suddenly decreases.

In addition to decreased bowel movements, other symptoms may include:

• hard, dry stools
• pain or difficulty during bowel movements
• loss of appetite
• abdominal swelling
• flatulence and belching

What are the causes of constipation in children?

Constipation in children is rarely caused by physical or external environmental factors. While it may be due to the anatomy of the colon or rectum, it is usually the result of poor eating habits and leading a sedentary lifestyle.

Factors that can cause this condition include:

• drinking too little water and not getting enough fiber.
• too many foods with astringent properties.
• irregular meals.
• premature exposure to solid foods in infants.
• emotional stress.
• genetic causes.
• certain medications.
• waiting too long before going to the toilet.

Tips to treat constipation in children

If your baby or child suffers from constipation, it is best to see a pediatrician to find out if this is a temporary problem or if it is related to another condition.

If the problem is not that serious, it can usually be solved through some simple dietary changes. However, there are some common habits that will provide relief regardless of the severity of the symptoms.

Improving the diet

The first step is to improve their diet and add foods rich in fiber. This nutrient promotes good digestion. It can be found in foods such as:

• whole grains
• fruit
• vegetables

drink more

A good amount of water and healthy drinks is the key to preventing constipation in children. This is because fluids increase the volume of the fiber they eat and soften the stool so it moves more easily through the gut.

Gentle massage

This simple step can be calming for babies and young children alike. The massage promotes bowel movement, so that this will reduce constipation.

To get the effect you want, use deep and circular motions as if you were following the hands of a clock.

Encourage physical activity

It is important for children to exercise regularly to prevent and relieve constipation. Children who sit often are more likely to develop this problem. On the other hand, children who are very active have better gut and digestive health.

Home remedies for constipation

Experts and pediatricians recommend using laxatives only when absolutely necessary. Indigestion is usually the result of an unhealthy diet. Therefore, certain natural solutions can help.

plum tea

The laxative properties of prunes  stimulate bowel movement. It is also a good idea to drink this as a juice, but you can also prepare an easy tea.

Ingredients

• 1 plum
• 250ml water

Preparation

• Boil the plum in the water and let it steep.
• When it’s done, strain the water.

This is how you apply it

• Give your child about 50 ml of this tea, twice a day.

Olive and aloe vera oil

This treatment does not taste very good, but  it is one of the best ways to treat intestinal problems in children.

Ingredients

• 5 ml olive oil
• 3 drops of aloe vera oil

Preparation

• Combine both oils

This is how you apply it

• Give this mixture to your child on an empty stomach.

honey with milk

Honey with milk treatment is one of the best ways to alleviate this condition, as children really enjoy it.

Ingredients

• 20 grams of organic honey
• 200 ml milk

Preparation

• Heat the milk and add the honey to it.
• Stir until the honey dissolves.

She applies it to you

• Have your child drink this  before going to bed or on an empty stomach.

Have you noticed any constipation symptoms in your child? Then try all the recommendations in today’s article. If the problem persists despite everything, consult your pediatrician.