Constipation in toddlers and young children is common, and not always a major cause for concern. It refers to a child having very hard stools and passing fewer stools than usual.
While there is no minimum number of stools to serve as a reference guide, most experts define constipation as having fewer than three bowel movements a week. This may differ from one child to another, so it’s best to compare it with the child’s bowel pattern under regular circumstances.
Keep reading to learn more about toddler constipation, including the various causes, symptoms, and some treatment methods.
Unlike most adults, toddlers experience constipation for many reasons. These could be biological, physical, or emotional. Some of them are set out below.
This is one of the most common reasons for constipation in toddlers. The transition from diapers to potty training requires them to pay attention to their body signals and act on them reasonably quickly. This process usually takes time and can be difficult for both parents and children. So children often hold in their stool for fear or stress of “doing it wrong,” which leads to constipation.
The body needs adequate fiber and fluid to soften the stool to pass through the digestive tract. Toddlers who do not eat fruit or vegetables in their diet or do not drink enough water may experience constipation. Even high fat foods such as fast food and soft drinks can cause constipation. The good news is a change in diet can quickly improve this situation.
Children who prefer sedentary hobbies like watching TV or playing “seated” games (board games, puzzles, video games) instead of being active outdoors may be at higher risk of constipation. Although there is not enough evidence to prove this, some health experts believe that exercising and being active helps move digested food through the intestines and makes the stool passing process easier.
Many children feel embarrassed or afraid to use the bathroom in places like the nursery or kindergarten. They may also be worried about the pain of passing stool, which gets harder and more painful as constipation increases.
According to the
Certain health issues and diseases increase the likelihood of constipation.
These include:
Certain medicines and supplements may also increase the risk of constipation in children, such as:
Symptoms vary from one child to another. However, it helps to look out for some of the common signs of constipation. These include:
Keep in mind that these symptoms may present on their own or in combination, depending on diet and other factors. Tracking symptoms makes it easier to report them to the doctor.
A simple change in diet is often all it takes to treat constipation. Some changes to try at home include:
Behavioral changes that can reduce constipation can include:
Learn more about remedies for constipation here.
Short-term constipation is easier to treat and sometimes resolves on its own, but prolonged constipation can increase the risk of complications. These include:
At this stage, home remedies may not be effective enough to relieve constipation and its complications. It is best to consult a doctor to treat the condition as soon as possible.
Experts recommend seeing a doctor if symptoms of constipation continue for
Although constipation is not really a serious condition, it becomes a medical emergency when there is:
A doctor will examine the child and ask questions about their overall health and medical history. They may suggest an
Doctors may advise an over-the-counter laxative or mineral oil to improve bowel movement and relieve constipation. However, it is important not to buy these without a doctor’s advice.
A balanced diet and supportive environment play a big role in preventing constipation. Children often get constipated when they fear potty training or do not get adequate fiber and fluids in their diet.
Here are some helpful tips to prevent constipation:
Constipation in toddlers and young children is common and easily treatable in most cases.
Home remedies and changes to diet usually help relieve symptoms. A balanced diet can help to prevent constipation and its complications.
If constipation continues for 2 weeks or longer, it is best to visit a doctor to prevent complications.
Last medically reviewed on March 25, 2022
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