How to Address Dry Stool Issues in Babies?

Update Date: 2024-05-17 Source: Network

The Harm of Constipation to Human Body

Constipation poses significant harm to the human body. It affects the normal detoxification process, leading to the accumulation of toxins that cannot be expelled normally, thereby compromising physical health. In infants, constipation often manifests as dry stool, which is generally physiological and often associated with diet. Dry stool in infants can be improved through dietary adjustments. However, there are numerous other methods to address this issue.

What to Do When an Infant Has Dry Stool?

Dry stool in infants is a manifestation of constipation, resulting from abnormal bowel movements influenced by intestinal structure, diet, and lifestyle factors. Infant constipation often resolves spontaneously through dietary and lifestyle modifications. However, if constipation persists, immediate medical attention is necessary to prevent serious consequences.

Pre-Hospital Management:

1. Assist the infant in taking a hot bath before defecation to promote bowel movement.

2. Apply lubricating oil to the anus during defecation to facilitate stool passage.

3. Assist the infant in cleaning the anus after defecation and observe for any anal trauma.

Emergency Situations:

1. Seek immediate emergency care or call 120 if the infant experiences abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, or other symptoms despite lubrication and attempts to pass dry stool.

2. Seek immediate care if the infant has anal trauma or bleeding due to dry stool.

Referral Situations:

1. Refer to a pediatrician if self-management fails to resolve the issue and exclude any organic intestinal pathology.

2. Seek care from a pediatric surgeon if dry stool causes anal trauma or infection.

3. Refer to a pediatrician if the infant experiences pain, fear of defecation, abdominal pain, bloating, loss of appetite, fatigue, or mental lethargy due to dry stool.

Post-Hospital Care:

1. Breastfed infants should be encouraged to drink water and yogurt. Infants introduced to solid foods should primarily consume vegetable and fruit purees, with reduced intake of meat, broth, and milk. Older infants who can eat independently should be encouraged to consume more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.

2. Encourage the infant to drink plenty of fluids, such as honey water, fruit juice, or vegetable juice.

3. Massage the infant's abdomen clockwise after meals to promote intestinal motility.

4. Ensure the infant has sufficient daily physical activity and encourage crawling, walking, running, and jumping.

5. Help the infant establish healthy bowel habits and avoid developing aversion to defecation due to dry stool.