Select your preferred language here
We are just one dial away, make sure to give us a call or text us to 253-661-5939.
Understanding and Managing Constipation in Children: A Parent's Guide
As a parent, watching your child in discomfort can be tough, especially when it comes to issues like constipation. This page serves as a helpful resource to better understand constipation in children, the potential causes, symptoms to look out for, and what steps you can take to provide relief. Our aim is to empower you with the knowledge to act quickly and get in touch with your child’s pediatrician if needed, ensuring your little one feels better soon.
What is Constipation in Children?
Constipation in children occurs when they have difficulty passing stools or do not have regular bowel movements. When constipated, children may experience stools that are hard, dry, and painful to pass. While the condition is often temporary, it can cause significant discomfort and frustration. Thankfully, constipation in children is treatable, and in most cases, it can be easily managed with the right interventions.
Common Causes of Constipation in Children
Understanding what might be causing your child's constipation can help in finding the right solution. Some common causes include:
Dietary Changes
Insufficient intake of fiber or fluids in a child’s diet can often lead to irregular bowel movements. Too much processed food and not enough fruits, vegetables, or whole grains can contribute to constipation.
Illness or Medication
During or after an illness, children may lose their appetite, which can lead to changes in their digestive system. Additionally, certain medications can slow bowel movements, causing constipation.
Withholding Stool
Children sometimes avoid going to the bathroom due to fear of pain when passing a hard stool or simply not wanting to interrupt playtime. Over time, withholding can worsen constipation.
Emotional or Environmental Factors
Stressful life events, such as a move or starting school, changes in routine like travel, or discomfort with public restrooms can also trigger constipation.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Conditions such as hypothyroidism or other gastrointestinal disorders can sometimes be the root cause of persistent constipation.
Signs and Symptoms of Constipation in Kids
Constipation can manifest in various ways, and it’s important to recognize the signs early. Key symptoms include:
- Infrequent bowel movements (less than 3 per week)
- Hard or lumpy stools that are painful to pass
- Abdominal pain, cramping, or nausea
- Straining during bowel movements and complaints of pain
- Rectal bleeding due to passing hard stools
- Loss of appetite
- Emotional changes such as stress or irritability
When Constipation in Children Goes Untreated
Untreated constipation can become a chronic issue. As stool sits longer in the intestines, it becomes harder, larger, and more difficult to pass. This can lead to increased discomfort and complications like:
- Painful bowel movements
- Risk of rectal fissures (small tears in the lining of the rectum)
- Encopresis (involuntary leaking of stool due to chronic constipation)
- Emotional distress or anxiety around using the bathroom
Addressing constipation early is essential to prevent these complications and keep your child healthy and comfortable.
How to Treat Constipation in Kids
Effective treatment starts with identifying the underlying cause. It’s important to schedule an appointment with your pediatrician as soon as you notice signs of irregular bowel movements in your child. Early intervention can prevent the issue from worsening.
Possible Treatments:
- Dietary Adjustments: Increasing fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help soften stools. Ensuring your child drinks plenty of fluids, particularly water, is also key.
- Regular Bathroom Routine: Encourage your child to use the restroom at regular times each day, especially after meals, and to take their time.
- Medications: If necessary, your pediatrician may recommend stool softeners or laxatives for short-term use.
- Further Evaluation: In cases where constipation is persistent or severe, your pediatrician may recommend diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, to determine if there is an underlying cause.
While constipation is common and often temporary, it’s important not to ignore it, especially if your child is in discomfort. At Pediatrician Specialty Practices, we’re here to help you and your child find relief. Schedule an appointment today to discuss the best treatment plan tailored to your child's needs.
Affiliation with St. Francis Hospital
We are proud to be affiliated with St. Francis Hospital in Federal Way, offering families access to high-quality, specialized care. St. Francis features a Family Birth Center dedicated to maternity and childbirth services, including comfortable birthing suites and a calm, supportive environment for new families. With options for both obstetrical and midwifery care, they provide comprehensive labor and delivery services, including high-risk pregnancy care and vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). The center is supported by a Level II Special Care Nursery staffed by a specialized neonatology team, ensuring around-the-clock care for newborns in need. This partnership allows us to connect families with top-tier resources and care tailored to each stage of pregnancy, birth, and beyond.
The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners® (IBLCE®) and International Lactation Consultant Association® (ILCA®) have recognized St. Francis Hospital for excellence in lactation care.
Accepted Insurance
At Pediatrician Specialty Practices, we strive to make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. That’s why we proudly accept most major insurance plans. To see the list of commonly accepted providers, simply click "View Full List of Companies."
Please note, this list is not exhaustive, and we may accept additional plans beyond those listed. If you don’t have insurance, we offer flexible payment plans to ensure your child receives the care they need.
For questions about your specific insurance plan or to discuss payment options, feel free to reach out to our office. We’re here to help!
Schedule Your Child’s Appointment Today!
At Pediatrician Specialty Practices, we offer flexible scheduling options to fit your busy life, with same-day sick visits available. You can easily book your child’s appointment by calling our office or using our convenient online scheduling tool.
Contact us today to make an appointment and ensure your child receives the care they deserve!
32124 1st Ave S, Suite 100, Federal Way, WA 98003
You can either text or call us!
Phone: 253-661-5939 | Fax: 253-661-5929
Office Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Legals
Accessibility Statement
Privacy Policy
Socials
Designed with ❤ and ☕️ in NYC by D.A.S. Consultants.