Question
An 8-month-old baby has developed constipation after weaning, with no bowel movement for three days. Although the baby had a bowel movement after using an enema, it caused injury and bleeding around the anus. Although bowel movements returned to normal for a while, constipation recurred the next day, and using the enema again led to bleeding and the discharge of mucus. How should this be handled?
Answer
Firstly, it is not recommended to frequently use enemas as they may cause irritation and injury to the baby’s anus. Long-term use of enemas can lead to dependence and disrupt the normal bowel movement mechanism. For this situation, consider administering oral medications that adjust the intestinal flora to help improve the baby’s bowel condition. At the same time, adjust the baby’s diet by adding foods rich in dietary fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grain products, to promote intestinal peristalsis and improve constipation. Additionally, ensuring the baby has an adequate water intake is also important. If the situation does not improve, it is advisable to consult a doctor promptly for professional diagnosis and treatment.