hello doctor, my baby is now 19 months old and not gaining weight or height. She is suffering from a constipation problem I visited so many hospitals still using syrup but no result. Sometimes she cries while pooping. Please help me

Question

hello doctor, my baby is now 19 months old and not gaining weight or height. She is suffering from a constipation problem I visited so many hospitals still using syrup but no result.  Sometimes she cries while pooping. Please help me

Accepted Answer

I'm sorry to hear that your baby is experiencing difficulty with constipation and is not gaining weight or height as expected. This can be concerning, and it's important to address these issues promptly. Here are some steps you can take to help alleviate constipation and support your baby's growth and development:

### 1. Consult a Pediatrician or Pediatric Gastroenterologist:
- Schedule an appointment with a pediatrician or pediatric gastroenterologist to discuss your baby's constipation and growth concerns.
- They can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.

### 2. Address Constipation:
- Ensure your baby is getting enough fluids, especially water, throughout the day to help soften stools and ease bowel movements.
- Offer high-fiber foods such as fruits (e.g., prunes, pears, and apples), vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
- Incorporate gentle tummy massage or bicycle leg movements to help stimulate bowel movements.
- Your pediatrician may recommend a stool softener or laxative suitable for infants to help relieve constipation. Follow their guidance and dosage instructions carefully.

### 3. Encourage Healthy Eating Habits:
- Offer a balanced diet with a variety of nutritious foods to support your baby's growth and development.
- Ensure your baby is getting adequate protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals essential for growth.
- Offer regular, nutritious meals and snacks throughout the day.

### 4. Monitor Weight and Height:
- Keep track of your baby's weight and height measurements regularly to monitor their growth trajectory.
- Your pediatrician can assess your baby's growth percentiles and provide guidance based on their growth chart.

### 5. Address Feeding Challenges:
- If your baby is struggling with feeding or has difficulty eating due to constipation or other reasons, work with a pediatric feeding specialist or speech therapist for support and guidance.
- Consider exploring different feeding techniques or textures that may be more comfortable for your baby.

### 6. Provide Emotional Support:
- Offer comfort and reassurance to your baby during bowel movements, especially if they experience pain or discomfort.
- Stay calm and patient, and provide a supportive environment to help alleviate stress or anxiety associated with constipation.

### 7. Follow Medical Advice:
- Follow any recommendations or treatment plans provided by your pediatrician or pediatric gastroenterologist.
- Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled and communicate any changes or concerns regarding your baby's symptoms.

### 8. Rule Out Underlying Conditions:
- In some cases, constipation and poor growth may be symptoms of an underlying medical condition. Your healthcare provider can conduct further evaluations or tests to rule out any underlying issues.

### 9. Seek Emotional Support:
- It's natural to feel worried or stressed when your baby is experiencing health challenges. Consider seeking support from family members, friends, or a mental health professional to cope with these challenges.

### 10. Stay Positive and Persistent:
- Stay positive and persistent in seeking solutions to your baby's constipation and growth concerns.
- With appropriate medical care and support, many babies can overcome constipation and achieve healthy growth and development.

### Immediate Action:
If your baby is experiencing severe pain, distress, or other concerning symptoms, seek immediate medical attention or contact your pediatrician for guidance. Severe constipation or other underlying issues may require prompt evaluation and treatment to prevent complications.

### Note:
Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your baby's diet, medication, or treatment plan. Your pediatrician or pediatric gastroenterologist can provide personalized recommendations based on your baby's specific needs and medical history.