Hi,I am Dr. Subhankar Chakraborty (Gastroenterologist). I will be looking into your question and guiding you through the process. Please write your question below.
My 6 year old nephew has a bowel movement only once every 5 or 6 days. Apparently his doctor says this is sometimes normal in small children. This doesn t sound right as I know it s not healthy for waste to stay in a person s body that long. What is your general opinion on this? Thanks.
Hi. Thanks for your query. Noted the history about your 6 years old nephew who has bowel movements once every 5 or 6 days and his Doctor says this is normal for the age. Well, you are absolutely right. Constipation for a few days is fine. I would advise you the following:Since your nephew is 6 years old he can be very well trained for bowel. You have to observe which foods and beverages help for proper evacuation and which ones cause the problems. Mild laxative or Suppository training at a fixed time in the early morning can help him to have normal daily bowel movements. Timely eating, playing and all other activities also train the children indirectly.
I find this answer helpful
You found this answer helpful
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
We use cookies in order to offer you most relevant experience and using this website you acknowledge that you have already read and understood our
Privacy Policy
What Causes Abnormal Bowel Movements?
Hi. Thanks for your query. Noted the history about your 6 years old nephew who has bowel movements once every 5 or 6 days and his Doctor says this is normal for the age. Well, you are absolutely right. Constipation for a few days is fine. I would advise you the following:Since your nephew is 6 years old he can be very well trained for bowel. You have to observe which foods and beverages help for proper evacuation and which ones cause the problems. Mild laxative or Suppository training at a fixed time in the early morning can help him to have normal daily bowel movements. Timely eating, playing and all other activities also train the children indirectly.