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Suggest Treatment For Constipation In Child

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Posted on Mon, 27 Jul 2015
Question: Hello Doctor,
My kid (1.5 month old) havent passed stool from last 4 days. before that he was passing stool on daily basis ( in good quantity), in addition to that sometimes he was passing stool in very small quantities. but from last 4 days he is not passing stool at all. sometimes he seems uncomfortable due to stool but later on he is ok. so we are bit confused that shud we visit.doctor or shud give him something ( like water with some sugar, or massage heeng on his stomach) . so that he can pass the stool. please advise.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Archana Verma (30 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Wait and watch if baby comfortable

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to the HCM

I understand your concerns but don't worry. Infants can have such changes in frequency and consistency of poops. They can pass stools many times in a day and then change to once in a week sometimes. Also, the colour and consistency can vary a lot.

If your baby is comfortable, feeding and sleeping well , then there is no need for any treatment at present. You may wait for another 2-3 days with out any problems. Continue regular breastfeeding as constipation can be due to dehydration. If on formula feeds, check for proper dilution. Disproportionate dilution can lead to this problem.

Kindly do not use any sugars orally as it may lead to unnecessary infections. Hing massage is fine and can be given.

But in case you feel the abdomen is tense and he is uncomfortable, you may use glycerin suppository ( half the tablet per rectal once).
Do not repeat it more than once a day.

If still he doesn't respond and has vomiting, marked abdominal distension or any other symptoms, a pediatrician visit will be useful.

Hopefully this will help you. For any further questions, I will be happy to help you out.

Take care
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
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Answered by
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Dr. Archana Verma

Pediatrician

Practicing since :2006

Answered : 1129 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Constipation In Child

Brief Answer: Wait and watch if baby comfortable Detailed Answer: Hi Welcome to the HCM I understand your concerns but don't worry. Infants can have such changes in frequency and consistency of poops. They can pass stools many times in a day and then change to once in a week sometimes. Also, the colour and consistency can vary a lot. If your baby is comfortable, feeding and sleeping well , then there is no need for any treatment at present. You may wait for another 2-3 days with out any problems. Continue regular breastfeeding as constipation can be due to dehydration. If on formula feeds, check for proper dilution. Disproportionate dilution can lead to this problem. Kindly do not use any sugars orally as it may lead to unnecessary infections. Hing massage is fine and can be given. But in case you feel the abdomen is tense and he is uncomfortable, you may use glycerin suppository ( half the tablet per rectal once). Do not repeat it more than once a day. If still he doesn't respond and has vomiting, marked abdominal distension or any other symptoms, a pediatrician visit will be useful. Hopefully this will help you. For any further questions, I will be happy to help you out. Take care