Information for Parents

Constipation is common in childhood. There are many possible causes for constipation, although sometimes there is no obvious reason. Some possible causes include:

• Not eating enough high-fibre foods such as fruits and vegetables
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Interruptions/pressure when potty training
• Experiencing pain when trying to open bowels
• Lifestyle changes, such as lack of exercise

What are the symptoms of constipation?

• Not opening bowels for at least 3 times in the last week
• The stool is hardor has the appearance of little pellets
• Straining or in pain when trying to pass stool
• Some bleeding during or after opening the bowels
• Poor appetite or stomach pain which improves after going to the toilet
• Soiling of underwear with watery/ loose stool

What do I need to know?

Treatment provided will be based on your child’s age (please see ‘Movicol Disimpaction’ leaflet). The longer your child is constipated the longer it can take for them to return to normal.

To prevent constipation in the future

• Make sure your child has plenty to drink
• Give your child a variety of foods, including high fibre foods
• Encourage your child to be physically active
• Get your child into a routine of sitting on the toilet/potty
• Make sure your child can rest their feet flat on the floor or use a step when they are using the toilet

Further Information

If you need any more information or advice between the hours of 0800-2000 Monday-Sunday please call The Children’s Urgent Care Centre on 02073906150. Out of hours please contact NHS 111.

Call NHS 111 if you need medical help fast, but its not life threatening- for example, if you:

• Think you need to go to hospital
• Don’t know who to call for medical help
• Need medical advice or reassurance about what to do next

In case of emergency please call 999 or attend your local Children’s Emergency Department