Constipation in infants and children: when to get help
Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency care if the child has green vomit, a very swollen or increasingly painful abdomen, difficulty waking, or appears seriously unwell.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek prompt medical advice if constipation:
Began during the first weeks of life
Follows delayed passage of meconium after birth
Occurs with poor growth, weight loss, fever, or repeated vomiting
Causes ongoing blood in the stool
Is associated with weakness, abnormal walking, or bladder problems
Does not improve despite treatment being used as directed
These signs can occur with an intestinal blockage or another urgent condition.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if constipation is painful, keeps returning, causes soiling, or does not improve with simple measures.
Seek advice if you are unsure whether an infant’s bowel pattern is normal or a child needs repeated laxative treatment.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Constipation in infants and children. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.