Everyone can suffer from constipation. It is a common happening. As a matter of fact, not even babies are exempted. There are so many factors that can cause constipation. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse or NDDIC, constipation is having a bowel movement less than three times a week.
A person who is constipated usually suffer from straining and difficulty eliminating dry and hard stools. Moreover, other symptoms of constipation are bloating and lower abdominal pain.
The description of constipation is different in babies. Frequently, what is observed is the consistency or the condition of the bowel and not the frequency of having a bowel movement. It is acceptable for babies not to have bowel movement for a number of days most especially the newborns.
Symptoms Of Constipation In Infants
Constipation is very hard to establish in babies. As mentioned earlier, it is acceptable for babies not to pass out stools after several days, most especially babies who are nursed by their mommies. In addition, it is difficult to tell if babies are in pain, as they tend to cry habitually every time 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 excessively large and in some instances blood 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.
Household Remedies
It is expedient to consult physicians or the baby’s pediatrician when this condition occurs. However, there are some home remedies which mothers can do to help alleviate this condition.
1. Nursing The Baby Or Reducing The Number Of Milk Formulas
This is the safest and most practical means to relieve early stage constipation. If the baby is fed with formula milk, it is expedient to reduce 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 stabilize the bowel movement of babies. Proteins in milk are broken down into smaller pieces which make it easier to digest.
3. Corn Syrup
Corn syrups can be added in babies feeding formulas to help ease constipation. Adding sugar in the feeding can help attract 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 Rubdown And Warm Bath
Tummy massages and warm baths can make the baby’s muscles to loosen. This approach can also help in relieving pain and discomfort of constipation.
Constipation is not life threatening however it is a very uneasy experience. It can be a very excruciating experience for babies and may cause parents to be anxious and to become agitated. By proper nutrition and hygiene, this condition is preventable. On the other hand, if constipation occurs, which is most likely to happen, these household remedies are very effective and safe. Although these home remedies have no hazardous side effects, is it still suggested to visit doctors and pediatricians first for proper prognosis and precise management.
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This post was written by admin on August 2, 2011
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