How to relieve constipation and rectal pain in a toddler?

Question

Hello doctor,

My daughter is suffering from constipation for a month. She is 2.8 years old. As per the doctor's prescription, a dose of 7.5 ml of Lactulose was given. After a few days, she was constipated and started suffering from pain in the rectum. She has not pooped for five days and we are worried. Yesterday we visited the doctor again and a dosage of Lactulose of 5 ml thrice per day has been suggested. It is 24 hours and still, she is holding the poop and crying. What to do?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

She is holding the stools because of pain. Chances are she might have fissures at the local site (anal region).

1. You can apply Xylocaine jelly (Lidocaine) as a local anesthetic to relieve pain two to three times a day.

2. Give her a banana twice a day.

3. Continue the medications as per the doctor's advice.

4. Increase her water intake by two to three liters per day.

5. You need to counsel her that there is no need to hold her stools. Assure her it will not be hard now.

6. She also needs dietary modification for long-term healthy bowel habits.

Hope this helps.

Thanks and take care.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Your doctor has already prescribed medication and it is fine to go for a short course. Also, I think it is now a matter of holding due to pain rather than a hard stool. She needs to be encouraged. Too much medication at this age is not good.

Hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.