Everyone can suffer from 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.When a person is constipated, stools are frequently dry, hard and they are very difficult to eliminate. Also, other symptoms of constipation are bloating and lower abdominal pain.
When it comes to babies, constipation is defined in a different way. Normally, what is observed is the stool form or the condition of the bowel and not the frequency of having a bowel movement. As it is normal for some babies not to pass out stools for several days.
Symptoms Of Constipation In Infants
Constipation is difficult to establish in babies. As mentioned earlier, it is normal 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 irritated.
To tell if the baby is constipated, check the stools if they are hard and looks like pellets or if they are too large. In addition, if babies are having hard time to relieve themselves and may have frequent cries due to discomfort, this is a clear indication of constipation.
Dependable Home Remedies To Soothe Constipation In Babies
It is advisable to consult physicians or the baby’s pediatrician when this condition occurs. Then again, stay calm. There are techniques to alleviate the symptoms of constipation.
1. Nursing The Baby Or Reducing The Number Of Milk Formulas
This is the safest and definitive remedy to help alleviate the pain and discomfort of constipation. If the baby is fed with formula milk, it is advisable to cut down the number of scoops and add more water. Increasing the amount of water can assist to soften the stools.
2. Hydrolyzed Formula
Babies who are anguished from constipation can receive hydrolyzed formulas to help put on a normal footing the bowel movements. It helps break down proteins in milk into smaller pieces making it easier to assimilate.
3. Corn Syrup
Corn syrups can be incorporated in babies feeding formulas to help alleviate constipation. Adding sugar in the baby system will help attract fluids which can make bowels softer and easier to eliminate.
4. Prune Juice
This type of juice can be given to babies who are not less 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 also colonic stimulant that leniently helps to 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 discomforting. It is a distressing experience for both the baby and the parents. It is natural for parents to worry about their children's health. This condition can be prevented by proper baby diet. On the other hand, if constipation occurs, which is most likely to happen, these home remedies are very efficient and safe. Although these home remedies have no hazardous side effects, is it still suggested to contact doctors and pediatricians first for proper diagnosis and precise management.
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