Constipation

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Digestive system organs

Sources of fiber

Irregularity of bowels; Lack of regular bowel movements

Children and adults should get enough fiber in their diet. Vegetables, fresh fruits, dried fruits, and whole wheat, bran, or oatmeal cereals are excellent sources of fiber. To reap the benefits of fiber, drink plenty of fluids to help pass the stool.

For infants with constipation:

• Over 2 months old -- try 2 - 4 ounces of fruit juice (grape, pear, apple, cherry, or prune) twice a day.
• Over 4 months old -- if the baby has begun solid foods, try baby foods with high-fiber content (peas, beans, apricots, prunes, peaches, pears, plums, spinach) twice a day.

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Regular exercise may also help establish regular bowel movements. If you are confined to a wheelchair or bed, change position frequently and perform abdominal contraction exercises and leg raises. A physical therapist can recommend exercises appropriate for your physical capabilities.

Stool softeners (such as those containing docusate sodium) may help. Additionally, bulk laxatives such as psyllium may help add fluid and bulk to the stool. Suppositories or gentle laxatives, such as milk of magnesia liquid, may establish regular bowel movements. Enemas or stimulant laxatives should be reserved for severe cases only. These methods should be used only if fiber, fluids, and stool softeners do not provide enough relief.

Do NOT give laxatives or enemas to children without first asking your doctor.

Call your doctor immediately if you have sudden constipation with abdominal cramps and an inability to pass gas or stool. Do NOT take any laxatives.

Also call your doctor if you have:

• Sharp or severe abdominal pain, especially if you also have bloating
• Blood in your stool
• Constipation alternating with diarrhea
• Thin, pencil-like stools
• Rectal pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Been using laxatives for several weeks or self care is not working

Call your child's pediatrician immediately if:

• An infant (except those exclusively breastfed) goes 3 days without a stool and is vomiting or irritable