Everyone can suffer from constipation. It is a common happening. In truth, it is so common that even babies are not exempted. This condition is caused by so many factors. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse or NDDIC, constipation is having a bowel movement less than three times a week.

When a person is constipated, stools are frequently dry, hard and they are very difficult to eliminate. Also, other symptoms of constipation are bloating and lower abdominal pain.

When it comes to babies, constipation is defined differently. Normally, what is observed is the consistency or the condition of the bowel and not the frequency of having a bowel movement. As it is normal for some babies not to pass out stools for several days.

How To Tell If Your Child Is Constipated

 
In truth, it is difficult to determine if babies are constipated. As mentioned earlier, it is normal for babies not to pass out stools after several days, most especially infants who are breastfed. In addition, it is difficult to tell if babies are in pain, as they tend to cry habitually whenever they are hungry or when they are annoyed.

Fundamentally, constipation can be determined if they have hard stool more like pellets or if they are extremely large and in some instances blood streaks can be found in their stools. In addition, if babies are having hard time to relieve themselves and may have frequent cries due to discomfort, this is a clear evidence of constipation.

Home Remedies

Lots of parents will consult their physicians whenever the child is upset. This is a good thing. However, there are some home remedies which mothers can do to help alleviate this condition.

1. Breastfeeding Or Changing The Consistency Of Milk Formulas

This is the safest and definitive remedy to help ease the pain and discomfort of constipation. If the baby is fed with formula milk, it is expedient to cut down the number of scoops and add more water. The increase amount of water helps to soften the dry bowels inside the intestines.

2. Hydrolyzed Formula  

Hydrolized formulas can be given to normalize the bowel movement of babies. Proteins in milk are broken down into smaller pieces which make it easier to digest.

3. Corn Syrup  

To alleviate constipation, corn syrups can be added in baby’s feeding milk. Adding sugar in the feeding can help entice fluids. It can make bowels softer and easier to eliminate.

4. Prune Juice

This type of juice can be given to babies who are not under six weeks of age. Prune juices have sorbitol, a sugar which acts as a natural stool-loosening agent that naturally helps in relieving constipation. Sorbitol is a colonic stimulant that can help speed up the transit time of the stools.

5. Tummy Massage And Warm Bath  

Tummy massages and warm baths can relax the baby’s muscles. This approach can also help in relieving pain and discomfort of constipation.

Athough constipation is not lethal, it is very discomforting. It is a distressing experience for both the baby and the parents. It is natural for parents to worry about their children’s health. By correct diet and hygiene, this condition is avoidable.  On the other hand, if constipation occurs, which is most likely to happen, these home remedies are very efficient and safe. Although these home remedies have no harmful side effects, is it still recommended to consult doctors and pediatricians first for proper prognosis and accurate management.

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