It’s not uncommon for infants and children to experience constipation, which can be uncomfortable and raise concerns. The skilled team at Gastro Health for kids is well-versed and experienced in offering both short-term and prolonged assistance for children dealing with acute or chronic constipation. To schedule an appointment regarding your child’s constipation, contact either of our offices in Gainesville, GA today. Alternatively, you can conveniently book an appointment online.

Constipation is a prevalent issue among infants and children, characterized by infrequent, hard, or challenging bowel movements. Typically, it is a transient concern often triggered by alterations in diet or during the process of potty training.

It’s essential to recognize that children’s bowel habits can vary, and what is considered normal may differ from one child to another. Some children may have daily bowel movements, while others might only go a few times a week.

The absence of a daily bowel movement doesn’t automatically indicate constipation in a child.

Constipation may be present if your child:

• Has fewer than three bowel movements a week.
• Complains of pain during bowel movements.
• Appears to struggle with passing stool.
• Exhibits stools that are larger than normal, dry, or hard.
• Shows traces of blood on the surface of the stool.
• Complains of or appears to experience abdominal pain.

Fortunately, constipation in children is typically manageable and preventable.

In the majority of childhood constipation cases, the issue is typically temporary and easily preventable and treatable.

To prevent and address constipation, consider the following:

• Increase fluid intake to 3-4 glasses of water daily.
• Provide a daily serving of apple, pear, or prune juice.
• Boost the consumption of high-fiber foods, including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
• Encourage daily physical activity.
• Promote a regular eating schedule.
• Foster regular attempts at having a bowel movement.

Incorporating these consistent habits can significantly contribute to the prevention of constipation and facilitate swift improvement when it arises as a concern.

At Gastro Health for kids, the team focuses on addressing clinical symptoms and discomfort associated with constipation, conducting a comprehensive evaluation of medical and behavioral causes. They collaborate closely with patients and their families to formulate personalized treatment plans tailored to address constipation and fecal soiling.

In most instances, constipation is a transient condition. However, if your child experiences persistent or recurring constipation lasting more than a few weeks, presents with blood in their stool, or exhibits severe abdominal pain, it is crucial to seek evaluation.

While rare, chronic constipation can lead to long-term complications, including:

• Severely painful bowel movements
• Intense abdominal pain
• Bladder control issues
• Fecal impaction, where stool is densely packed and difficult to pass
• Hemorrhoids, or enlarged blood vessels in the anus and rectum
• Rectal prolapse, where the rectum protrudes outside the body
• Skin breaks, heightening the risk of infection

When your child faces chronic constipation or complications thereof, the Gastro Health for kids team is dedicated to providing sustained treatment and support, aiming to enhance your child’s overall quality of life.

If you’re concerned about your child’s acute or chronic constipation, don’t hesitate to call or book an appointment online with Gastro Health for kids today.