Question
A five-month-old infant is experiencing constipation issues, with bowel movements occurring every 6 to 14 days, but the stool is not dry and there are no signs of crying. The infant is exclusively breastfed and has no abdominal bloating. How should parents handle this situation?
Answer
Constipation is a common symptom in infants, which can be categorized into functional constipation and constipation caused by congenital intestinal malformations. Most often, an infant’s constipation is functional constipation, which can be treated by adjusting diet and lifestyle habits. Parents should be aware of the following constipation signs: reduced stool volume and dryness, difficult bowel movements accompanied by pain, abdominal fullness or pain, and decreased appetite. If an infant exhibits these symptoms, it is recommended to consult a professional doctor for appropriate treatment and advice. For functional constipation, it may be necessary to adjust the infant’s diet, increase water and fiber intake, and maintain regular bowel habits. If constipation is caused by congenital intestinal malformations, surgical treatment may be required.