What laxative do doctors recommend for infants?

Laxatives for children are medicinal and natural preparations to eliminate intestinal dysfunction that causes problems with bowel movements, pain and constipation in children. Constipation is a condition in which bowel movements are below normal for age. Due to intestinal dysfunction, the child cannot have a bowel movement on his own, becomes irritated and tearful, and develops general weakness and abdominal pain. Particular attention should be paid to the fact that problems with bowel movements in young children are usually associated with intestinal diseases.

Features of choosing a product

When choosing a drug for a child, you must remember that there are age restrictions for taking laxatives of various pharmacological groups. A children's laxative should have a mild effect, without irritating or injuring the intestinal wall. It should not be addictive and contain substances that are potentially hazardous to the child’s health. It is also worth remembering that in case of primary constipation, it is better to deal with the problem using traditional methods and correction of eating behavior. In most cases, this is enough to gently normalize stool and improve intestinal motility, but if the desired effect cannot be achieved, the use of medicinal methods is allowed. These can be tablets, syrups, enemas, laxative suppositories and microenemas.

Indications for the use of laxatives

The most common problem in children of all ages is bowel dysfunction, and most often they encounter constipation, which needs to be treated. However, it is worth considering that the absence of stool for up to 3 days in babies from birth to one year can be the norm. In this case, measures should only be taken when the child sleeps poorly, refuses to eat, or is capricious.

Older children may experience constipation due to poor eating habits. In this case, laxatives will also help. However, almost all medications have a list of contraindications, so before using this or that drug it is recommended to consult a specialist, because bowel movements may be disrupted due to a disease or pathology of the gastrointestinal tract.

You can cleanse the intestines using both folk remedies and medications. A lot of both have been developed. However, when choosing a laxative, it is necessary to rely on the indications and take into account side effects, as well as contraindications.

Laxative medications are indicated in the following cases:

• constipation;
• presence of helminths;
• poisoning;
• fecal stones and waste;
• before surgery.

Most often, intestinal congestion is observed in people who prefer a sedentary lifestyle and adhere to an unbalanced diet or diet.

Why does constipation occur in children?

In infants, the causes of this ailment are of various origins. It is possible to completely use human milk and a small amount of feces, as a result of which sufficient peristalsis does not occur. With artificial feeding, the cause of constipation may be malnutrition or a monotonous milk diet. This is the so-called nutritional constipation.

In older children, as well as in adults, they develop with a monotonous, predominantly meat or mealy diet, as well as with a sparing or waste-free diet for a long time. The cause of constipation in this case is the lack of plant fiber and vitamins (especially vitamin B12), which are causative agents of peristalsis and regulate intestinal motility.

Defecation disorders can also occur in certain diseases, for example, in children suffering from rickets, malnutrition, hypothyroidism. In these cases, the absence of stool is due to atony of the intestines and abdominal wall (atonic constipation).

In some cases, constipation is a consequence of dyskinetic intestinal disorders, when spasm simultaneously occurs in some areas and atony in other areas. The cause of constipation in childhood can be developmental anomalies - elongation and expansion of the colon or its parts, a sharp narrowing of the lumen of the distal intestine.

Often at school age, stool retention occurs when the act of defecation is suppressed during play or school lessons. In these cases, so-called habitual constipation occurs. They are caused by distension of the lower colon. With anal fissures or inflammation in the rectum due to Hirschsprung's disease, children also suppress bowel movements due to painful sensations.

Bisacodyl suppositories for children

Bisacodyl is an emergency laxative.

This drug enhances the contractile activity of the intestinal muscles and is an emergency laxative.

The effect develops within 1 hour after installing the suppository. This drug has more contraindications than glycerin suppositories:

• Do not use to relieve constipation in an infant.
• Inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract
• Gynecological and urological diseases
• Intestinal obstruction or suspicion of it
• Spastic constipation associated with intestinal muscle atony

This drug has one release form - 10 mg of the main active ingredient per 1 suppository. Therefore, to eliminate constipation in a child, the candle will have to be divided. Effective dosages in childhood:

Baby laxatives: review and instructions

Mild laxatives for children are drugs that have osmotic as well as stool softening properties. These include herbal remedies of plant origin, which include agar-agar, bran, and seaweed. Can be used to treat constipation in very young patients.

"Bisacodyl"

This is one of the most affordable and safe drugs to combat constipation in children, which can be used from the age of six. Bisacodyl has an irritating effect on receptors located on the surface of the epithelium of the large intestine. The drug stimulates contractions of the intestinal walls and the movement of the fecal bolus into the rectum. The medicine is available in the form of rectal suppositories and tablets containing 5 mg of active substance.

The standard therapeutic dosage for children over 6 years of age and adolescents is 5 mg. The drug should be taken in the evening with water. If the use of Bisacodyl is required to prepare for surgery or endoscopic examination of the intestine, the dosage can be increased to 2 tablets (10 mg).

Contraindications for the use of Bisacodyl and its analogues are:

• acute pathologies of the stomach and intestines (gastritis, gastroduodenitis, colitis, enteritis);
• gastrointestinal bleeding;
• intestinal polyposis;
• intestinal obstruction.

The drug promotes the excretion of water and minerals into the colon, so it cannot be used for a long time. Long-term use of Bisacodyl is especially dangerous for children suffering from heart disease, since potassium and magnesium ions are actively removed from the body along with water and feces.

"Dulcolax"

This is a more expensive analogue of Bisacodyl, which has an expanded list of indications and contraindications for use. The effect of the medicine begins 61,000 hours after use. If Dulcolax is taken in the evening, bowel movement will occur after 81,002 hours, that is, immediately after waking up.

Pharmacological properties of the drug:

• binds to water in the alkaline environment of the gastrointestinal tract;
• increases mucus secretion in the colon;
• stimulates intestinal motility.

The dosage of the drug for children aged 61,002 years is the same as for Bisacodyl - 5 mg half an hour before meals or before bedtime. For adolescents over 12 years of age, the single dose can be increased to 2 tablets. If the medicine is used in the form of rectal suppositories, the following dosage regimen is used (for children over 10 years of age): 1 suppository 1-2 times a day. Children aged 61,000 years old have half a suppository inserted into their rectum. The duration of treatment should not exceed 1 week.

The possibility of using Dulcolax in young children (from 1 to 6 years) is determined only by the attending physician. In this category of patients, the use of the drug is possible only in the form of rectal suppositories.

"Laxatin"

Laxatin tablets help to quickly and gently stimulate the motility of the large intestine and eliminate long-term constipation in 1-2 applications. The drug is taken once a day, and the single dosage depends on the age of the child: children over 12 years old can be given 2-3 tablets; if the child has not reached the age of 12 years, the single dosage is 1 tablet.

"Forlax" for children

It is a laxative that acts as a bulking agent. In the intestines, the drug swells and increases in volume. The intestines react to this with increased peristalsis, this allows you to solve the problem of constipation in a short time. The medicine is sold in the form of powders with delicious fruit flavors. At home, a drinking solution can be easily prepared from such powders. Contraindications include intestinal obstruction, inflammation of the tract, suspected pathologies that need to be eliminated surgically. The drug should not be taken by children under 8 years of age. Children over 8 years old are prescribed 10 grams once a day. Powder, if such a dose is ineffective, it is allowed to increase it to 20 g.

Forlax is one of the most effective and popular drugs for quickly eliminating constipation in children. It can be used from six months of age. For children aged 6 months to 8 years, the drug is available in a special children's form (powder for preparing a solution with orange flavor). Children over 8 years old can be given regular Forlax.

"Transipeg"

This is a laxative drug in powder form for preparing a solution based on macrogol. It can be used to combat constipation in children over 1 year of age. The finished solution has the taste of lemon or apple, which children like, so there are usually no difficulties with treatment. The advantage of "Transipeg" is that it is not digested in the stomach and intestines and is not absorbed by the mucous membranes, but is excreted from the body unchanged. The drug retains water in the large intestine, which mixes with stool and softens it. "Transipeg" does not irritate the mucous membranes, and the effect of use appears after 1-2 days.

The dosage for children is usually:

• from 1 year to 6 years – from 2.95 g to 5.9 g per day (up to 2 sachets);
• from 6 to 12 years – from 2.95 g to 8.85 g (up to 3 sachets per day).

If during treatment a child develops a skin rash, it is necessary to stop using the drug and give him an age-appropriate antihistamine and a sorbent.

What not to do

First of all, don't wait for the problem to go away on its own. Repeated and prolonged bowel movements in infants always require consultation with a pediatrician.

In addition, it is not recommended:

• feed the baby strictly according to the clock - the baby himself “knows” how much milk he needs and when; feeding on demand promotes normal bowel function and, in addition, stimulates lactation in the mother;
• supplementing breastfeeding after regurgitation: this is a normal act that helps the baby get rid of air and excess food trapped in the stomach;
• supplement the baby with formula or completely switch to artificial feeding, believing that the baby does not have enough milk - the guideline for the fact that he has enough food should be good sleep and normal weight gain;
• frequently use a gas tube, resort to enemas and other methods of stimulating bowel movements;
• use traditional methods of stimulating the rectum, for example, inserting a piece of soap into the anus: soap irritates the mucous membrane and can cause a chemical burn; the laxative effect can be achieved using gentle means, for example, MICROLAX® microenemas;
• take medications without consulting a doctor - all of them can enter the child’s body along with milk and affect his body in general and the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract in particular.

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Products with natural composition

More than 80% of drugs in this group are herbal products. Despite the fact that some of them belong to the category of biologically active food additives, they cope well with constipation in children and help to gently normalize stool without irritating the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract.

"Help"

This is a complex laxative drug, which contains lactulose and extracts of plant components (fennel, anise, strawberries, cumin). The interaction of the components of the drug improves digestion, increases the number of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, enhances peristalsis and ultimately leads to a laxative effect. The daily dose for a 3-year-old child is 15 mg, divided into several doses.

Composition of Pomogusha syrup and its effect:

"Fibralax"

This is a drug from the category of dietary supplements that has recently appeared on the market, but has already proven its effectiveness in the treatment of constipation in adults and children. As an active ingredient, the product contains the shell of plantain seeds. This is a source of coarse fiber, which not only cleanses the intestines of “garbage” (toxins, allergens), but also binds excess cholesterol, helping to reduce the fatty load on the liver. This is especially true for children who consume large quantities of fatty and fried foods.

"Fibralax" is available in powder form for preparing a solution. It is not addictive and has sorbent properties, so if necessary it can be used for a long period of time. Preparing the solution (suspension) is simple: pour the contents of the package into a mug, add a glass of cold water and stir thoroughly. After taking the suspension, you should drink another glass of cold water. It is recommended to take the product half an hour before meals or 2 hours after meals.

"Fitolax"

This is one of the most popular drugs that are used for mild correction of intestinal motor function in adolescents over 14 years of age. The product has a natural composition (extracts of plantain, dill and senna and apricot powder) and is available in convenient dosage forms that allow you to take into account the individual preferences of adolescents: chewable tablets, tea, fruit bar and concentrate for preparing a strawberry-flavored drink.

In some pharmacies you can even find Fitolax chocolate for sale, which is perfect for teenagers who refuse to take laxative medications in the form of tablets and syrups. You need to take 1-2 tablets in the evening (chew, do not wash down with water).

Properties of the drug:

• stimulates contractions of the intestinal walls;
• binds and removes toxic substances, allergens, heavy metal salts from the intestines;
• reduces bloating and gas formation;
• increases mucus secretion in the large intestine.

All preparations under the trade name “Fitolax” do not contain flavorings, dyes, sugar and gluten.

What to do if a child has constipation - treatment methods for children of all ages

How to treat a child depends on the severity and type of problem. These could be medications, enemas, massage, diet.

It is not recommended to do enemas frequently, otherwise flaccid bowel syndrome may develop. That is, he will “forget how” to work independently. However, sometimes enemas are useful. Their volumes vary by age:

• up to 1 month – 30 ml;
• 1-3 months – 30-40 ml;
• 3-6 months – 90 ml;
• 6-12 months – up to 180 ml.

The temperature of the water in the enema should be around 23-24℃.

Massage helps well with atonic constipation. You need to massage the anterior abdominal wall in a clockwise circular motion. It is useful to place a small child on his stomach and gently irritate the anus with your hand.

To improve peristalsis, you can give a glass of juice or water.

For psychogenic constipation, you need to follow a number of recommendations:

• give more vegetables and liquids;
• do not focus on the problem, support the child;
• play role-playing games, behave positively, do not show frustration;
• do not scold the child, tell him how his body works, help him understand the problem;
• tell thematic tales, you can invent them yourself.

What can you give your child for constipation? Overview of drug groups

For spastic constipation, suppositories with glycerin can help. The introduction of other substances, including oils, is not recommended.

For constipation, several groups of laxatives are indicated:

• osmotic - transfer liquid to the stool to soften it, safe for children, they can be taken every day and for a long time - magnesium hydroxide, polyethylene glycol, lactulose, magnesium citrate, sorbitol;
• stimulants - promote contraction of the intestinal muscles, move stool through it, they are prescribed for a single dose - bisacodyl, senna;
• lubricants - facilitate the process of stool movement through the intestines, have an oil base - glycerin suppositories, petroleum jelly.

Diet

Nutrition should be correct, with plenty of liquid and plant fiber - vegetables, fruits, oatmeal, pearl barley, etc. You need to give up foods that slow down motor skills, control the caloric intake of the diet, the content of minerals and vitamins in it. The following products are excluded from the menu, and if the child is breastfed, they are excluded by the nursing mother:

• milk;
• strong tea, coffee;
• semolina;
• fatty food;
• baking;
• pasta;
• White bread;
• crackers;
• rice.

It is important to increase fiber in the diet, which will regulate bowel movements. It is abundant in fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, seeds and nuts. The listed products are rich in minerals and vitamins and contain a lot of protein. The fiber content should be 2 g per serving. Recommended standards by age:

• 1-3 years – 19 g per day;
• 4-8 years – 25 g per day;
• 9-13 years - 31 g per day for boys, 26 g per day for girls.

Foods high in fiber

Changing mode

The child needs to be taught to have bowel movements at the same time every day. To stimulate bowel movements, you can give cold water or fruit juice.

Regular physical activity is necessary to improve the functioning of the abdominal muscles. This could be regular walks, ball games, jumping rope, swimming, cycling.

What to do if you need help urgently?

Sometimes situations arise when a 3-year-old child needs help immediately. This is evidenced by prolonged constipation (several days), abdominal pain, severe tension when trying to go to the potty, pain when straining.

These symptoms indicate that the baby has serious constipation, and there is no time to wait for mild remedies to work. In such a situation, pediatricians prescribe one of the fast-acting medications. In addition to those already discussed above, the following medications are used:

• Enema
  . One of the best home ways to help three-year-old children. 100–150 ml of chilled, slightly salted water or a chamomile solution is injected into the rectum. 5-10 minutes.
• Sodium sulfate
  . 3 g of salt is dissolved in a small amount of water and used for severe constipation only on the advice of a doctor. 4-5 hours.
• Regulax
  . Medicine based on senna leaves. It has a stimulating effect on the intestines and enhances peristalsis. Dosage – 5-8 drops in the evening before bedtime. By the morning.
• Guthallax
  . It has a rapid laxative effect due to irritation of the intestines and the accumulation of water in it. Dosage: 1 drop per 10 kg of child’s weight. Given overnight. By the morning.
• Exportal
  . A powder that increases the volume of feces and softens them. Dosage for children under 6 years of age – from 2.5 to 5 g per day. During the day of reception.

Since fast-acting drugs can severely irritate the intestinal walls and quickly increase motility, their use is permissible only after consultation with a pediatrician. It is preferable to avoid situations of prolonged constipation in children and to use mild and gentle means.

"Mikrolaks"

Microclysters "Microlax" are one of the most effective, convenient and safe drugs for relieving constipation in newborns and infants under 1 year of age. To introduce the drug into the rectum, you need to carefully break the seal of the tube, insert the tip into the child’s anus (half the length!) and squeeze out the contents. After this, without unclenching your fingers, remove the tip of the microenema and turn the child onto his stomach to prevent the solution from leaking out.

The effect of using Microlax usually occurs 15-30 minutes after application. The product has no contraindications, but you should not use it too often, as this can lead to lazy bowel syndrome.

"Duphalac" and "Normaze"

This is a transparent and very viscous syrup made from filler substances based on real dietary fiber. Lactulose acts in the large intestine, improving its peristalsis, retaining water and increasing the volume of feces, while simultaneously softening them. Helps restore intestinal microflora and resist dysbacteriosis. It is prescribed even to newborns and infants. The drug is practically not absorbed into the body, quickly reaches the intestines and is excreted. Contraindications are intestinal obstruction, and in some cases diabetes mellitus. The syrup should be given to the child once a day, preferably in the morning with a meal.

A mild laxative based on lactulose with an additional probiotic function - “Normaze” stimulates the growth of beneficial lactobacilli and bifidobacteria in the intestines. Thanks to them, the stool becomes softer and constipation stops. Contraindication: intestinal obstruction and inflammatory processes in it. The drug conflicts with antibiotics, which can reduce its effect, so you should not take Normaze simultaneously with antimicrobial agents.

And let it be cool as

Duphalac is a drug that eliminates dysbacteriosis and constipation.

The main active ingredient is lactulose syrup. The main component of Duphalac has an osmotic effect and is a probiotic.

Thus, 2 problems are solved - defecation and improvement of intestinal microflora. That is, 1 drug eliminates both the possible cause - dysbiosis, and the consequence - constipation.

In appearance, Duphalac is a transparent yellowish syrup. Available in bottles of different sizes and in sachets for single use. The indication for prescribing the drug is constipation of any etiology. Duphalac is not prescribed for:

1. Suspicion of intestinal obstruction
2. Metabolic disorders - absorption of various di- and polysaccharides
3. Perforation or suspected perforation of organs in the gastrointestinal tract

Effective dosages depend on the age of the toddler. Children aged 2 years are prescribed from 5 to 10 ml. The drug is taken whole undiluted or diluted with a small amount of water. The syrup should not be absorbed in the mouth.

If no effect is observed, then you should continue taking it at the recommended dose. The maximum daily dose of Duphalac should not be exceeded.

In case of overdose, diarrhea and abdominal pain may occur.

Laxatives for children: table

The table below shows the most popular laxatives for children, as well as the age at which they can be used and the recommended dosage regimen.

Scheme for the use of laxatives in children

Constipation - methods to solve the problem

Constipation in a baby occurs as a result of poor nutrition.

Defecation dysfunction in a 2-year-old child is a consequence of poor nutrition, stress, various gastrointestinal diseases, and a reaction to antibiotic treatment.

Therefore, laxatives do not solve the problem as a whole, but as an emergency remedy for long-term stool retention, their use is justified.

The fight against constipation in a child should begin by reviewing the diet, introducing more liquid, coarse fiber, and vegetables and fruits. They perfectly solve the problem of constipation of the drain in any form - from fresh to juices, prunes, jam and “Prunes in Chocolate” candies. Dairy products and grape juice work well.

If nutritional correction does not help, then you should take laxatives. You should start with soft remedies - dill water, chamomile decoction. The first is sold in pharmacies, helps improve peristalsis and, as a result, solves the problem of constipation.

Chamomile normalizes the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, relieves inflammation, spasms, and improves bowel movements. The decoction is prepared according to the instructions on the package - for 1 cup of boiling water, 1 teaspoon of plant material. Take the decoction 3 times a day.

Be prepared for the fact that both chamomile and dill water may take 8–12 hours to take effect. Herbal decoctions do not solve the problem immediately. If mild remedies do not bring the expected effect, and the problem needs to be solved, then you should turn to more effective medications. What laxatives are indicated for children aged 2 years:

Contraindications to laxatives

Since constipation is not an independent disease, but only a symptom of a pathology developing in the child’s body, pay attention to other signs. The most dangerous cause of constipation is intestinal obstruction caused by:

• congenital pathologies of the intestinal structure;
• entry of a foreign object into the intestine;
• incorrect and sudden changes in diet.

This condition is dangerous for the health and life of the baby. Go to the hospital immediately if the following signs appear:

• no stool for more than 2 days;
• gases do not escape;
• the temperature remains elevated;
• vomiting appears.
• Sometimes treatment requires surgery.

A common feature of all types of constipation remedies for children is that they do not cure, but only solve the problem in the near future. With chronic constipation, the very next day the baby will again be unable to go to the toilet on his own. And this will continue until you show it to a doctor and go through a course of treatment with him.

Folk remedies for treating constipation in infants

Dried fruit compote has a laxative effect.

Centuries-old observations have suggested several effective and simple remedies.

For example, raisin water or a weak dried fruit compote.

The baby should be placed on his tummy before feeding and do gymnastics with him, which develops the abdominal muscles.

Natural laxatives for children

Natural laxatives for children are a number of medicinal products that have a gentle effect on the child’s body and have no side effects. As a rule, constipation in children is associated with the family's eating style. The child's diet should contain foods that have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the intestines. The following foods have laxative properties: cabbage, pumpkin, beets, dried apricots, plums, figs, zucchini, bran and many other products. They should be included in the child's diet to ensure normal bowel movements.

Let's look at several recipes for natural laxatives for children that you can prepare yourself at home.

Decoction to improve intestinal motility

. If your baby has difficulty emptying his bowels, this decoction for oral administration will help eliminate constipation. You will need a herbal mixture of buckthorn bark, rowan fruits and caraway seeds in a ratio of 8:4:1. All ingredients must be thoroughly chopped, poured with water and boiled in a water bath. After this, the product should cool and infuse for an hour. Strain the infusion through a thick layer of gauze.

For children aged 2-3 years, give the decoction a teaspoon 2 times a day in the morning and before bedtime. Children 4-7 years old: one dessert spoon twice a day, and for older children: a tablespoon, observing the dosage described above. The decoction improves intestinal motility and regulates stool. The course of treatment should not exceed 2-3 days.

Infusion for the treatment and prevention of constipation

. This recipe is suitable for children suffering from increased gas formation and frequent constipation. To prepare the infusion, take buckthorn bark, calamus root and licorice root in a ratio of 3:1.5:1. Grind all ingredients thoroughly, pour boiling water and keep on medium heat for 10-15 minutes. After this medicine you need to wrap it in a towel and leave for 1-2 hours. Strain through several layers of the brand so that the remaining raw materials do not get into the infusion. The dosage fully corresponds to the recipe described above. The infusion normalizes stool and prevents gas formation in the intestines.

Guttalax drops for toddlers

Guttalax drops - improves intestinal motility.

This laxative improves intestinal motility, which promotes normal bowel movements. Available in bottles with a dropper. In appearance it is a clear to yellowish-brown liquid.

The main active ingredient has a stimulating effect on the intestinal mucosa and increases the flow of water into the lumen of the colon.

The expected effect develops within a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12 hours. Indications for the use of Guttalax are constipation of various etiologies. The drug is not prescribed for:

1. Inflammatory processes in the intestines, colon
2. Suspicion of volvulus
3. Acute pathological processes in the gastrointestinal tract
4. Epigastric pain
5. Severe dehydration
6. Hereditary fructose intolerance

The dosage of Guttalax depends on the age of the child. For toddlers aged 2 years, the following calculation formula is used: per 2 kg of weight, 1 drop of solution. Drops are taken both whole and diluted.

The importance of timely diagnosis

The main thing is, of course, a preliminary consultation with a pediatrician. He can refer the child to a gastroenterologist, who will prescribe all the necessary medications. No self-medication: only doctors have the right to determine the dose and frequency of administration. This also applies to folk remedies - it is unknown what the reaction of the child’s body will be.

Today on sale you can find both children’s laxatives in the form of syrups and suppositories, as well as more gentle folk methods. However, you need to understand that in a situation of exacerbation it is necessary to seek specialized help. In some cases, constipation may be a sign of more serious pathologies.

What is constipation in an infant?

Constipation is accompanied by severe crying.

Longer breaks in time between bowel movements may be an individual characteristic of a tiny organism.

In other cases, it is enough to introduce mild laxative products into the mother’s diet and give the child water to eliminate them.

Constipation is accompanied by much more serious symptoms in the form of causeless crying and anxiety, pulling the knees to the chest, lack of gas, incomplete bowel movements, uncharacteristic stool shape (for example, pea-shaped), refusal to eat, and sometimes even vomiting.

If the baby strains, grunts and turns red during bowel movements, his efforts lead to nothing, and he bursts out with restless cries - you can be sure that he is constipated.

Constipation in newborns due to illness

The main reasons leading to constipation vary depending on age. It is believed that impaired fecal excretion in the first month of a child’s life (newborn period) is most often associated with organic pathology, that is, diseases or conditions affecting not only intestinal functions.

Constipation in infants and infants can be a manifestation of various pathologies:

1. Neuromuscular diseases that disrupt intestinal peristalsis - congenital megacolon, spinal cord lesions, dysplasia of the nervous tissue of the intestine.
2. Anatomical defects, such as narrowing and intestinal obstruction.
3. Systemic diseases - rickets, hypothyroidism and thyrotoxicosis, Down syndrome, connective tissue diseases, etc.
4. Congenital intolerance to cow's milk protein and gluten (cereal protein).

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Treatment of constipation involves achieving the following goals:

1. Normalization of stool consistency (soft, painless stools)

2. Regularity of bowel movements (prevention of re-accumulation of feces)

Treatment of constipation is a sequential, complex, individual process and consists of several stages:

• child and parent education
• correcting nutrition and drinking regime
• elimination of existing coprostasis using medications
• maintenance therapy

It is necessary to exclude factors that provoke and contribute to constipation (normalization of motor and eating habits, stopping taking medications that can cause constipation, identifying a food allergen, excluding or confirming a neuromuscular disease, celiac disease, etc.).

Lifestyle normalization includes:

• development of a conditioned reflex
• active lifestyle
• gymnastics
• training in light abdominal massage skills
• for small children - laying on the stomach, bending the legs towards the stomach.

Education is the first step in the treatment of functional constipation. It must be remembered that episodes of stool loss and encopresis (fecal incontinence) are not voluntary and should not be blamed on the child, who may already be scared and disoriented. In some cases, when the family situation is difficult, the help of a family psychologist may be needed.

It is important to understand that treatment for functional constipation can be lengthy, is based on trust in the doctor, partnership and requires patience. Modern laxatives, approved for children, will not make the intestines “lazy”, will not cause “addiction”, they enter the bloodstream in minimal quantities or are not absorbed at all and are safe for long-term use.

Correcting the behavior of a child with constipation is based on developing a toilet routine in order to achieve regular bowel movements. Defecation should be done at the same time every time. The urge to defecate is based on the gastrocecal reflex, which manifests itself in the morning 1 hour after eating. A child with constipation needs to spend 3-10 minutes on the toilet (depending on age). The child should be seated on the potty or offered to go to the toilet after each meal.

A prerequisite for effective defecation is to provide a good foot rest (a low bench on which the child can place his feet), which helps to increase intra-abdominal pressure.

If defecation is unsuccessful, the child should under no circumstances be punished and vice versa. The daily frequency of bowel movements can be noted in a diary, which can be reviewed at a routine visit to the doctor.

Treatment of constipation must begin with lifestyle changes, which include correction of diet, drinking regimen and physical activity.

Why constipation needs to be treated

Systematic constipation can negatively affect the functioning of the body as a whole.

Threat of intoxication.

When feces accumulate in the intestines, their breakdown products begin to be absorbed into the blood and poison the body. Intoxication can manifest itself as lethargy, drowsiness, and loss of appetite.

The likelihood of developing dysbacteriosis.

Stagnation of feces in the intestines disrupts the balance of beneficial and pathogenic microflora, which negatively affects not only the digestion process, but also the body’s ability to resist diseases. Thus, frequent constipation reduces immunity.

Stretching of the intestinal walls.

Regular accumulation of large amounts of feces mechanically stretches the intestinal walls, which significantly aggravates the problem of constipation as the walls weaken. The expansion of the walls, in turn, provokes inflammation of the mucous membrane and increased gas formation.

If you notice signs of constipation in your child, then do not ignore this problem. Consult your doctor and be sure to start treatment for constipation to normalize your child's intestines.

When constipation is a temporary problem

The main reason for difficult defecation in infants today is considered to be functional immaturity of the body2, leading to uncoordinated work of the muscles of the anterior abdominal wall and rectal sphincters. Normally, the urge to defecate causes contraction of the abdominal muscles (pushing) and simultaneous relaxation of the muscles that close the anus. If this process is disrupted and the rectal sphincters relax late, bowel movements are impaired. Doctors call this condition infantile dyschezia, not constipation.

Diagnostic criteria for dyschezia:

• baby’s age – less than 9 months;
• the baby strains intensely (more than 10 minutes) before emptying the intestines;
• the stool remains soft, as it should be during breastfeeding or bottle feeding.

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