Managing Constipation In a Child " Marcus an active 8-year-old, has complained to his mother about tummy aches "

Case study ( 8609 views as of March 19, 2024 )

Marcus, an active 8-year-old, has complained to his mother about tummy aches and pain when he tries to "go number 2". He shares that he can't go very often, but when he does it is lumpy and hurts. His mom takes him to their family doctor, who identifies the issue as acute constipation. Marcus' mom mentions Marcus is a bit of a picky eater - she has a difficult time getting him to drink fluids, especially after soccer practices and games, he prefers his sandwiches on white bread, and doesn't like to eat his vegetables.

The doctor recommends Marcus and his mom talk to a Registered Dietitian to see how Marcus can get more fiber into his diet and come up with some ways to stay hydrated throughout the day. Additionally, discussing the use of mild laxatives with both the dietitian and doctor may be appropriate. If Marcus's constipation doesn't resolve his mother should consider seeing a pediatric gastroenterologist or pediatrician to talk about long term management of his constipation.

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Conversation based on: Managing Constipation In a Child " Marcus an active 8-year-old, has complained to his mother about tummy aches "

Managing Constipation In a Child " Marcus an active 8-year-old, has complained to his mother about tummy aches "

  • Reflux, even when not associated with severe underlying conditions, can still cause various problems and discomfort. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the food pipe or esophagus, leading to irritation known as esophagitis. In children with esophagitis, symptoms can include irritability and aversion to eating due to pain. There may also be small blood loss over time, which can result in anemia. Regular follow-up with a physician is crucial to monitor and address these concerns as they can develop gradually. Excessive spitting up in infants can cause calorie loss and hinder proper growth. Monitoring the child's weight regularly is important to ensure appropriate weight gain. If a child is not thriving or showing proper growth, it becomes necessary to investigate and explore other potential causes of the issue. Consulting with a dietitian and family physician can be helpful in such cases. In rare cases, when refluxed contents reach the mouth, they can be inhaled into the lungs, leading to aspiration pneumonia. This is a serious condition that requires immediate attention and thorough investigation to prevent further occurrences. If you have any doubts about your child's well-being, growth, or overall health, it is recommended to consult with your physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate guidance. They can assess the situation, provide necessary treatment or referrals, and ensure your child's health is properly managed.
  • The frequency of reflux episodes, whether it occurs several times a day or once every few days, is not the sole determining factor of concern. The primary focus should be on the child's growth and overall well-being. If a child experiences frequent spitting up or vomiting but continues to grow and thrive, it may not necessarily require immediate evaluation. On the other hand, if a child is not growing adequately or shows signs of poor weight gain along with vomiting, further assessment may be necessary. Your family physician is the best resource to guide you in determining whether your child requires additional evaluation or intervention based on their growth patterns, symptoms, and overall health. They can provide appropriate guidance and support to ensure your child's well-being.
  • My oldest suffers from constipation. I believe its half diet and half holding.
  • Speaking to a dietician will help figure out the issues behind Marcus's constipation. Lack of fluids and fiber in the diet is most likely the cause but how do you incorporate these items into a diet of a picky eater. A trained professional may have ideas to help his Mom out.
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