Dr Lam Ka-yi shares solutions for identifying and resolving constipation issues in children.
On 26th February 2024, renowned paediatrician Dr. Lam Ka-yi shared valuable knowledge on identifying and resolving constipation in babies and children on the TVB programme "All Things Popular". Here is a snippet from the programme:
The prevalence of constipation in children in Hong Kong
Constipation is quite common among children in Hong Kong. Data shows that approximately 10% to 20% of primary school students have constipation problems, while 30% of children under the age of six face the same issue. Even babies a few months old can experience constipation.
Criteria for diagnosing constipation
If the situation persists for six months, with fewer than three bowel movements per week for most of that time, and the stools are hard, large, or pellet-like, it can be classified as constipation. Parents can observe if their child experiences pain and bleeding during each bowel movement, or if faecal soiling occurs. Furthermore, persistent abdominal pain or a loss of appetite are also symptoms of constipation.
Causes of constipation
The causes of constipation vary depending on the child's age. For infants aged around 6-7 months, during the transition to solid foods, constipation can occur due to a reduced frequency of milk intake, leading to less absorption of water and fibre. Older children may experience constipation because they are reluctant to use school toilets or due to a picky diet. Certain congenital bowel diseases can also lead to constipation, but this is relatively rare.
Treatments and methods for improving constipation
The drug treatment for constipation generally uses lactulose to help emulsify stool for easier passage. For more severe cases where lactulose is ineffective, enemas may be necessary, but long-term use is not recommended. Improving dietary habits is key to treating constipation, including drinking more water and consuming high-fibre fruits and vegetables, such as melons, radishes, bananas, and oranges.
The help of probiotics for constipation
Probiotics can help with constipation, but the strains and quantities of ingredients vary in the market, and their effectiveness differs from person to person.
Cultivating good toilet habits in children
Cultivating good toilet habits from a young age is very important. Have regular toilet times, for example, one hour after meals, as there is more bowel movement then, which is ideal for a bowel movement. Eat and defecate at regular times, and exercise more to promote bowel movements. Avoid overly stimulating foods, such as spicy, too sweet, too salty, and processed foods. Good eating habits are very important for children's long-term intestinal health.
Daily water intake
You should drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day, and this doesn't just mean plain water; milk and soup count too. If children don't like drinking plain water, making soup is also a great option.
Dr. Lam Ka Yee's sharing has given us a deeper understanding of childhood constipation and provided practical advice to help parents better care for their children's bowel health.
Source: TVB Programme [Dolce Vita] (26 February 2024):
