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Understanding Childhood Constipation: Causes, Symptoms & Strategies

Learn about what constipation is, its signs and symptoms, causes like stress and diet, and strategies to address it. Discover helpful tips on diet, hydration, and toileting routines to manage constipation effectively.

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Understanding Childhood Constipation: Causes, Symptoms & Strategies

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Presentation Transcript

  1. Constipation

  2. Learning Objectives • Define what constipation is. • List five signs and symptoms of constipation. • Discuss the potential causes of constipation. • Discuss strategies to address constipation.

  3. Activity: Myths & Truths about Constipation

  4. What is Constipation? • Less than 3 bowel movements/week • Trouble having bowel movement • Hard & dry poop – like small pebbles

  5. Signs & Symptoms • Go less than usual • Feel bloated • Have pain when going • Steaks on underwear • Wetting accidents • Poor appetite • Irritability • Stool withholding

  6. Activity: Round RobinCauses of Constipation

  7. Causes of Constipation Environmental • Stress, anxiety • Changes in environment • Trauma • Bad toileting experiences Dietary • Diet low in fiber • Diet high in dairy • Dehydration Medical • Medications (e.g. antidepressant) • Iron supplements • Disabilities, developmental delays

  8. Strategies to Address Constipation • Adequate water (at least 3-4 glasses/day) • Fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) • A few oz of prune juice a day • No more than 4 servings of dairy • Try a fiber supplement • Encourage exercise

  9. Strategies to Address Constipation • Regular meals • Routine toilet schedule • Alleviate fears & concerns around toileting • Reward positive behavior changes versus outcome

  10. Key Takeaways • Children can get constipated when they are stressed, anxious, or because of change in environment. • Pay attention to signs like poor appetite and change in stooling patterns. • Strategies to address constipation include dietary and environmental changes.

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