Constipation
Constipation
Definiton
Constipation is the painful passage of small amounts of hard, dry stool or the inability to pass stool.  As long as the bowel movement is soft and easy to pass, the child is not constipated.  The frequency of passing stool does not determine constipation.  Everyone has their own bowel pattern.
Treatment
Diet should be appropriate for the age of the child.
Infants under 4 months should be given water between feedings, 2 ounces twice a day.  If not effective, then give diluted juices as indicated.

Infants 4 months to 7 months should be given diluted prune juice, up to 4 ounces daily.  Dilute 3 parts water to one part juice.  You may increase juice as indicated to obtain results.  Limit formula to 32 ounces per day in infants 0-6 months of age. Infants may be given cereal at 4 months of age.  Add a teaspoonful of bran to the cereal.

Infants 7 months to 1 year should be given prune juice, strained prunes, peaches, plums and apricots.  Limit formula to 26 ounces daily, but increase other fluids and fruit juices.  Move to chunkier textures in baby food as soon as baby seems ready for them, rather than sticking to strained foods for the entire first year.

Children 1 year and older should receive four servings of fresh fruit or cooked vegetables daily.  Use fruits and vegetables that have edible skins such as grapes, raisins, dates, plums, pears, figs, baked potatoes, corn, tomatoes, etc.  Other high fiber fruits are melon, canteloupe, and strawberries.  Substitute four serving of whole grain breads and cereals for refined ones.  Increase all fluids except milk.  Limit milk intake to 2 cups (16 ounces) daily.
Do not give stool softeners, laxatives, enemas, or suppositories.

Do not use honey or corn syrup for infants under one year of age.

If the child has persistent crying, gas, abdominal discomfort, begins vomiting, or if the above instructions do not relieve the constipation within 3 days, take the child to the doctor.
Prevention
Encourage exercise and active play.

Provide proper diet and adequate fluid intake.

Toddlers and children should establish good bowel habits by responding promptly to the need to have a bowel movement.
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