Question
Patient Description: A child has not had a bowel movement for two or three days and is experiencing flatulence. The child has never received any related treatment, and the parents are seeking assistance to restore the child’s normal bowel movements.
Answer
Hello, infants often have poor digestive function due to a lack of gastric acid and pepsin, which can easily lead to constipation. If a baby has bowel movements every three or four days but the stool consistency is normal, and the baby is growing and developing well, this is also considered a normal phenomenon. If the baby finds it difficult to have a bowel movement, you can try massaging the abdomen in a counterclockwise direction around the navel, and encourage the baby to drink more water to improve the symptoms. If massaging and adjusting the diet do not help the baby have a bowel movement, you can try using a clean cotton swab dipped in olive oil to stimulate the baby’s anus; this method is usually effective. It is recommended to undergo an intestinal examination for diagnosis and then proceed with treatment. Additionally, consuming foods rich in vitamins, especially vegetables and fruits, can help improve constipation. You can also use Simmered Four Herbs decoction to regulate the intestines.