Everyone can experience the disturbing symptoms of constipation. It is fairly common. As a matter of fact, not even babies are 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 fewer than three times a week.
A person who is constipated usually suffer from straining and difficulty eliminating dry and hard stools. People who are suffering from constipation may experience bloating, feeling of a full bowel and often times pain in the lower tummy.
When it comes to babies, constipation is defined differently. Instead of observing the frequency, the consistency or the condition of the bowel are the factors being monitored. As it is normal for some babies not to pass out stools for several days.
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 infants who are breastfed. Furthermore, babies cry a lot, making it more impossible to tell if the baby is suffering from pain or just irritated.
Basically, constipation can be established if they have hard stool more like pellets or if they are too large and in some cases melena 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 advisable to consult physicians or the baby’s pediatrician when this condition occurs. On the other hand, there are some household remedies which mothers can do to help alleviate this condition.
1. Breastfeeding Or Changing The Consistency Of Milk Formulas
This is the safest and most convenient means to relieve early stage 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
Babies who are anguished from constipation can receive hydrolyzed formulas to assist put on a normal footing the bowel movements. It helps break down proteins in milk into smaller pieces making 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 attract fluids. It can make bowels softer and easier to eradicate.
4. Prune Drink
Prune juice can be given to babies who are greater than 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 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 upsetting. It can be a very painful experience for babies and may cause parents to be anxious and to become distressed. This condition may be prevented by proper baby diet. On the other hand, if constipation occurs, which is most likely to happen, these household remedies are very efficient and safe. Although these home remedies have no harmful side effects, is it still recommended to visit doctors and pediatricians first for proper prognosis and accurate management.
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