CONSTIPATION

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

Definition of Constipation

• Pain or crying during the passage of a bowel movement (BM) OR  
• Unable to pass a BM after straining or pushing longer than 10 minutes OR
• No BM after more than 3 days. (EXCEPTION: If breastfed and > 1 mo. infrequent BMs every 6-7 days that are soft, large and pain-free can be normal.)
• The following symptoms are NOT constipation: normal grunting, brief straining or pushing for less than 10 minutes, large BMs, or BMs passed every 2 or 3 days.  Hard or dry BMs are also normal if passed easily.

Causes

• High-milk diet, lack of fiber in diet, postponing BMs.

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• Doesn't meet the definition of constipation, see ABDOMINAL PAIN.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

See Other Topics:

• Abdominal Pain

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