Constipation in Kids: Constipation is a common problem in both adults and young children. However, the problem is that most parents fail to recognize this problem in their children, leading to worsening discomfort over time. Pediatrician Mohit Sethi shared a video on his Instagram account. In this video, the doctor outlines some signs that can help identify constipation in children. He also explains the causes and ways to alleviate it. Let's explore these:

How do you know if your child is constipated?

Answering this question, Dr. Sethi explains, "First, if your child is passing stools more than two days apart, this could be the first sign of constipation."

Furthermore, if your child strains, cries, or experiences pain while defecating, this could also be a sign of constipation.

Sometimes, mild bleeding may occur due to hard stools. If your child complains of stomach pain for a long time or tries to hold back the urge to defecate, these symptoms indicate that your child is suffering from constipation.

Why does constipation occur in young children?
Dr. Sethi explains that excessive milk consumption is the most common cause of constipation in children between 9 and 12 months of age. Many children drink more than 1 liter of milk a day. Some parents even give cow's milk to such young children, which affects their stomach and digestive system. Excessive milk consumption causes children to eat less, depletes their diet of fiber, and increases the risk of constipation.

Causes of Constipation in Older Children
A common cause of constipation in older children is junk food. Foods like chips, pizza, and burgers do not provide fiber to the stomach, which can harden stools and prevent the child from passing stools easily.

Right Time for Toilet Training
In addition to these, doctors say that another cause of constipation is improper or delayed toilet training. Many children hold back stools even when they have them because they don't know how to go to the toilet properly. According to doctors, potty training should begin at 18 months of age. However, many children continue to defecate in diapers until they are 2 to 2.5 years old. This is wrong; it's important to gradually accustom them to this habit.

What to do when a child is constipated?

Give your child minimal milk and replace it with light foods, fruits, and pulses.

Increase fiber in your child's diet, such as ripe bananas, papayas, oats, vegetable soup, etc.

Increase the amount of water they drink to keep their stools soft.

Allow your child to play and move around a little every day.

Beyond all this, toilet-train your child with love and patience.

By paying attention to these small things, you can easily overcome constipation in children.

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