Q: My 23-month-old has constipation after having diarrhea. Should I be worried?

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Question:

My 23-month-old had diarrhea, so we went to the hospital. He had a slight fever and some gas was found on an X-ray. He was prescribed medication (Phlorospan, Polybutin), and the diarrhea has stopped. However, he hasn't had a bowel movement since yesterday morning. I have only been feeding him scorched rice soup and vegetable porridge. Should I take him back to the doctor?

Answer:

You must be very worried about your 23-month-old's constipation after having diarrhea. Temporary constipation after diarrhea treatment is a common phenomenon.

【Current Situation Assessment】

The fact that the diarrhea has stopped is a good sign, and the prescribed medications (Phlorospan, Polybutin) are helpful for restoring intestinal function. It can be normal for a child not to have a bowel movement for 1-2 days after a bout of diarrhea.

【What You Can Do Now】

1. Increase fluid intake - Offer water or barley tea frequently in small amounts.

2. Adjust the diet - In addition to the scorched rice soup and vegetable porridge, try adding bananas and sweet potatoes.

3. Tummy massage - Gently massage clockwise around the navel for 5 minutes.

4. Increase activity - Encourage light play to stimulate bowel movements.

【When to See a Doctor】

→ No bowel movement for more than 3 days.

→ The abdomen is very bloated and hard.

→ The child experiences vomiting or severe abdominal pain.

→ The fever returns.

For now, please observe your child for another day while trying the methods above. If your child is eating and playing well, there is no need to be overly concerned. This is part of the intestine's recovery process.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

https://fevercoach.us