Constipation

Constipation is a common problem in bottle-fed babies, especially those born in the summer time, when water lost in sweat is replaced with water from the bowels. This causes the faeces to dry out and become hard. It is much less likely to occur with breastfed babies. Some babies develop constipation when solid foods are introduced into their diet.

In older children, the cause of constipation may be similar, but it is made worse by not drinking enough in general (even in winter) and by fussy eating, when there isn’t enough fruit and vegetables in the diet.

Constipation causes a backlog of wind, which stretches the bowel and causes colicky, coming-and-going pains. These can be surprisingly severe, and have even been known to result in admission to hospital.

Remember that some children only open their bowels twice or three times a week, while others do so several times a day. Both extremes are normal. What is important is that the faeces can be passed easily without straining or pain.

What to do

• Try to encourage your child to eat more fruit and vegetables
• Increase his fluid intake, especially of fruit juices
• You can buy glycerine suppositories which melt in the back passage and lubricate hard faeces, allowing them to be passed more easily. They are available in a range of sizes, suitable for infants and older children
• If in doubt, or if constipation is a frequent problem, consult your doctor