For Babies and Children
When dealing with constipated children or babies, it is important to monitor their diet and fluid intake. Ensure they are consuming enough fiber-rich foods and staying hydrated. Additionally, gentle abdominal massages and encouraging physical activity can help alleviate constipation.
For Adults
A change in bowel habit and/or unintentional weight loss might be suggestive of someone who has a more serious bowel problem - such as bowel cancer.
Patients might recognize changes in bowel habits through:
Frequency: Noticing if you’re going to the bathroom more or less often than usual.
Consistency: Observing if stools are unusually loose or hard.
Appearance: Seeing changes in stool color, or if there's blood or mucus.
Discomfort: Experiencing pain or difficulty during bowel movements.