Pediatric constipation treatment in Illinois and Indiana

Pediatric Constipation Treatment

Infrequent bowel movements are a concern for many parents. While every child is different, fewer than three bowel movements a week accompanied by difficulty going is worth evaluating. Our board-certified pediatric gastroenterologists can help your child find relief. Call (708) 581-4911 or make an appointment online today at any of our five area locations.

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What Is Constipation?

Constipation is a condition in which your child has fewer than three bowel movements a week. Additional symptoms often include:

  • Stools that are hard, dry, and difficult to pass
  • Abdominal pain
  • Bloating
  • Stool in the underwear (soiling)
  • Urinary incontinence

Symptoms lasting longer than two weeks warrant an appointment with a specialist. Constipation tends to get harder to overcome with time. The longer stool remains in the lower intestinal tract, the larger, firmer, and drier it becomes, making it even more difficult to pass.

What Causes Constipation in Children?

The most common causes of constipation include:

Diet

A diet lacking enough fiber and fluid can lead to constipation. Adjusting your child’s diet is often an important first step.

Illness

Sick children often lose their appetite and change their eating habits, both of which can cause constipation. Constipation is also a side effect of some medications and health conditions.

Withholding

Children may withhold stool for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Pain from passing stool or from diaper rash
  • Potty training and issues of independence or control
  • Being too busy to take a break
  • Embarrassment about using a public toilet
  • Consuming too much dairy
  • Family history

Changes in routine and stress can also affect a child’s overall health, including bowel function.

How Is Constipation Diagnosed?

In most cases, our pediatric gastroenterologists diagnose constipation by reviewing your child’s medical history and performing a physical exam. Severe cases may require additional testing, such as blood tests and X-rays.

How Is Constipation Treated?

Treatment for constipation may include:

Changes in Diet and Nutrition

Increasing the amount of water, fruits, vegetables, and fiber your child consumes helps relieve and prevent constipation.

Behavioral Changes

If constipation develops during potty training, it’s often best to pause until regular bowel movements resume. Encouraging and rewarding regular bathroom use can also help.

Enemas

An enema helps clear the bowels by flushing them with water or a laxative solution to induce a bowel movement.

Laxatives

Oral laxatives can help children have bowel movements, but should only be used under a doctor’s supervision. Stopping laxatives too soon can lead to relapse, and using them when unnecessary can cause problems.

Because constipation can sometimes overlap with other digestive conditions, our team may also evaluate for concerns such as irritable bowel syndrome or celiac disease. Explore all of our pediatric GI services to learn more.

If you’re concerned about your child’s bowel habits, call (708) 581-4911 or make an appointment online today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my child is constipated?

Signs of constipation include fewer than three bowel movements a week, hard or dry stools that are difficult to pass, abdominal pain, bloating, and sometimes soiling of the underwear. If these symptoms last more than two weeks, it’s a good idea to see a specialist.

When should I bring my child to a pediatric gastroenterologist for constipation?

If your child’s constipation lasts longer than two weeks, is painful, or does not respond to dietary changes, a pediatric gastroenterologist can help. Persistent constipation is easier to treat when addressed early.

Can changes in diet really help with constipation?

Yes. Increasing water, fruits, vegetables, and fiber is often one of the most effective ways to relieve and prevent constipation in children. Our providers can offer specific guidance based on your child’s needs.

Why does my child hold in their bowel movements?

Children may withhold stool because of pain, potty-training struggles, being too busy to go, embarrassment about public restrooms, or too much dairy in their diet. Understanding the reason helps guide the right approach to treatment.

Are laxatives safe for children?

Laxatives can be helpful, but they should only be used under a doctor’s supervision. Stopping them too soon can cause constipation to return, and using them unnecessarily can create other issues. Our team will guide safe, appropriate use.

Could my child’s constipation be a sign of something more serious?

In most cases, constipation is not serious and responds well to treatment. However, persistent symptoms can sometimes overlap with other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or celiac disease, which is why an evaluation by a specialist is valuable.

Which locations treat pediatric constipation?

Constipation is treated at all five of our locations: Evergreen Park, Naperville, Elmhurst, and Romeoville in Illinois, or Highland, Indiana. Call (708) 581-4911 to schedule.