The Health Blog

CHILD’S HEALTH/BOWEL DISORDERS: CONSTIPATION TREATMENT

Generally the treatment of constipation is dietary. The child’s diet is modified to increase the amount of bulk and fibre he eats. This means giving increased emphasis to foods such as fruit, vegetables, high fibre cereals such as muesli, porridge, or Weetbix, Vita Brits or weeties, rice and pasta, wholegrain breads and biscuits, dried fruits and nuts. (Remember not to give nuts to children under 4 years of age as they may choke on them.)

It is also important to ensure that the child is drinking lots of fluids (but not too much milk) and is getting sufficient exercise. He should be encouraged to go to the toilet at a regular time, such as after breakfast or after dinner, and discouraged from holding back if he feels the urge to go to the toilet.

Sometimes medications are used for constipation. A number of different preparations are available, usually without a prescription. Medications are not a long-term solution for constipation. They may be very useful for several weeks to help relieve any pain or discomfort and to keep the stools soft, but a good diet and regular sitting on the toilet is the only treatment that will ensure long-term results.

When to see your doctor

Constipation is usually not a serious condition, and in the majority of cases the parents will easily be able to manage it. The doctor should be consulted if:

• the condition does not improve quickly with the simple measures described above;

• there is blood in the stools;

• the child is in persistent or severe pain;

• the constipation seems chronic;

• you are worried.

Most cases of constipation can be prevented by attention to diet and the other measures outlined above.

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