The Problem Of Constipation In Children And How To Avoid It

If you think that constipation in children simply because he has infrequent stools, in that case you better think again. Having infrequent stools does not really mean constipation although this problem is characterized by irregular bowel movement.

Constipation in children is a consequence of a deficient and unsuitable diet, insufficient intake of fluids or a problematic colon. Children who take in too much refined food or food without fibre generally suffer with constipation.

So how does one know when a kid has constipation? A kid may well have constipation if he has very dry and difficult stools or if he puts extra efforts to send his stools. A person's solid waste passes through the colon which is normally consists of some water that is inside the stool. However, when the colon is not functioning well, it may remove too much of the water in the feces resulting to very dry and rigid stool, thus resulting in constipation.

In plain words, constipation occur once the body's solid waste stay in the colon, thus extracting more fecal stool than what is needed. This happens when a person's colon has smaller movement as a result of a diet that does not appropriately stimulate the colon to do its usual function. Constipation also occurs when there is a barrier in the  tract as when there are problems with the anus or a tumor blockage.

Babies, especially those who are breast-fed, do not really experience constipation because the baby absorbs nearly all of the milk and there is not much residue left. Infants naturally discharge their waste less often but it does not mean they are constipated. However, when they are about to to get their feces off, they generally do it with a lot of grunting and forcing. This must not worry parents though since it is natural as the baby�s anus may still be a little taut and needs extra stretching prior to the stool can be released.

It is a diverse story though for formula fed babies who can get constipated due to the milk residue in the colon. When these infants become toddlers and given a additional solid diet later on, then they can be further prone to getting constipation.

For babies with really packed anus and who repeatedly experiences irritation when passing stool, it is best to have a rectal examination by a trusted doctor to make sure there is no obstruction in the anus.

So how is constipation in children treated? One way of avoiding and treating child constipation is to improve his diet which is rich in fruits and nuts. Teach them good food habits so that as they growup they will not attract much towards junk food.

There are mothers and even doctors who suggest drinking plenty of water daily right from childhood is good to stay away from constipation throught the life. The intake of fruit juices like apple or banana may perhaps also help in loosening the stool.

Always seek your pediatricians advice if you notice such problems.