Constipation is a very common problem in infants because their digestive system is still not well developed. Many mothers complain that their babies have colic, dry and dry stools, intestinal discomfort and difficulty in pooping, which is often a reason to take the child to the doctor.
The best option in these cases is to have adequate and high fiber food, give enough water for the baby and if none of these methods is enough to improve the problem, it may be necessary to give medicines for the baby, which should always be recommended by the doctor.
There is a wide variety of laxatives available in pharmacies, however there are few that can be used safely in infants:
1. Lactulose
Lactulose is a sugar that is not absorbed by the intestine, but is metabolized at this site, causing fluid to accumulate in the intestine, making the stool softer and easier to eliminate. Examples of remedies which have lactulose in their composition are Normalax or Pentalac, for example.
Generally, the recommended dose is 5 mL of syrup per day in infants less than 1 year of age and 5 to 10 mL per day in children between 1 and 5 years.
2. Glycerin suppositories
Glycerin suppositories act by increasing the amount of water in the stool, making them more liquid, which stimulates the movement of bowel contraction and evacuation. In addition, this remedy also lubricates and softens stools, making them easier to eliminate. Learn more about this medication, who should not use it and what are the most common side effects.
The suppository should be inserted gently into the anus, when necessary, not to exceed one suppository per day.
3. Enemas
The enema Minilax, has in its composition sorbitol and sodium lauryl sulfate, which act to aid in the normalization of the intestinal rhythm and making the stool softer and easier to eliminate.
To apply the enema, simply cut the tip of the cannula and apply rectal route, gently inserting it and compressing the tube to allow the liquid to escape.
There are also laxatives that can be given to children, such as milk of magnesia, mineral oil or macrogol, for example, but manufacturers of these drugs only recommend its use for children over 2 years. However, in some cases, the doctor may recommend these laxatives to younger children.
Get to know also home remedies that can help treat constipation in the baby.
