CONSTIPATION

What is Constipation?

Normal bowel habits are different for each person. Some people normally have one or more bowel movements each day, some may have one every three days. You may be constipated when you have fewer bowel movements than usual. Bowel movements may also be hard. You may experience pain when having a bowel movement.

What Causes Constipation?

Constipation is often caused by lack of exercise, change of diet or daily routine, use of too many laxatives or tension. Babies with diaper rash may hold back stools and become constipated. Other children may become constipated during times of emotional stress such as toilet training.

What is The Home Treatment For Constipation?

For Adults:

Drink water - at least six to eight glasses a day.
Eat high fiber foods such as whole grain breads, bran cereals, raw fruits, and vegetables. Prunes or prune juice may be helpful.
Exercise every day. A brisk 1/2 hour walk should help you feel better.
Do not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement. Many people notice that after eating a meal, they have the urge to have a bowel movement. This is a good time to try to have one.
Laxatives are seldom needed.

For Babies:

Babies may not have a bowel movement every day. If bowel movements are hard and dry, you should

give plenty of water. Give the usual amount of formula and other foods.
never give laxatives to babies without doctor's orders.
add one teaspoon of dark Karo syrup to a four ounce bottle of formula each day.
for babies over six months, give two ounces of prune juice mixed with two ounces of
water. If given before breakfast thismay help your baby's constipation.
call your nurse or doctor for advice if these measures do not help within two days.

When Should You Call The Doctor?

Call your doctor immediately if constipation occurs with:

repeated vomiting.
bleeding from the rectum.
severe stomach pain.

Make an appointment to see your doctor if you have:

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