What should I do if my ten-year-old child is constipated?

When children are growing, if they do not pay attention to their diet, they are likely to have some problems, such as getting angry, catching a cold, coughing, etc., especially 10-year-old children, who are more active. If they are not taken care of well and cannot drink some water in time, they are likely to become constipated, and constipation can cause other diseases. So, what should I do if a 10-year-old child suffers from constipation?

Normal children should have bowel movements 1-2 times a day. It is generally believed that constipation is defined as bowel movements once every 3-7 days, with hard and bulky stools in the shape of chestnuts, prolonged defecation or difficulty in defecation that causes pain. It is currently believed that lack of fiber in the daily diet is the main cause of constipation.

The key to treatment is to remove stool, reestablish good bowel habits, and encourage children to enjoy bowel movements. Treatment is with laxatives, bowel training, and dietary changes.

1. Laxative Mineral oil is a commonly used laxative, also known as enema. 60-90 ml per day should be divided into two times for defecation in the morning and evening. The dose can be adjusted so that the child has soft and painless stools for at least 2 days. Mineral oil can reduce the hardness of the stool and make it less difficult for the child to hold in his stool. Mineral oil can be used for a relatively long time, and is generally discontinued after 3-6 months of use depending on the condition of the disease. Another less commonly used laxative is senna and lactulose, which may be effective in some children. For children with severe constipation, glycerin enema can be used at the beginning, and then mineral oil can be used after the stool can be discharged smoothly and safely.

2. Toilet training: After each main meal, the child should sit on the toilet for at least 10 minutes (with a stand to support him). Parents should promise their children that they don't have to defecate during this period, but of course it is best if they can defecate. Children with the disease should completely eliminate the worries of being punished.

3. Dietary adjustment This is a very important yet difficult measure. Parents must realize that their children should consume foods rich in dietary fiber, and especially emphasize the need to adjust the diet of families that are not suitable. The daily dietary fiber intake of children over 2 years old should be "age + 5 to 10 grams". Patients should be given 1 gram of calcium daily and consume calories from foods that do not cause constipation (such as meat, eggs, peanut butter, and mayonnaise). It is also very important to stay hydrated and avoid caffeinated beverages.

If a child has constipation, if the symptoms are mild, they can be adjusted through diet. If the symptoms are severe, it is best to take the child to see a doctor. Some medicines to treat constipation can be taken to help the child develop a good habit of regular bowel movements. It should be noted that when constipation occurs, it is best not to let the child eat snacks, and it is important to let the child drink more soup.