bowel in children

Overview

The bowel (also called the intestines) is the part of the body that processes food after it leaves the stomach. It turns food into waste (poo) and helps the body take in nutrients. Bowel problems in children are common and include constipation (hard, dry poo that is difficult to pass), diarrhea (frequent, loose, watery poo), and stomach aches.

Yes. Bowel problems are one of the most common reasons parents take their child to a health visitor or GP (family doctor).

Children of all ages, from babies to teenagers. Constipation is very common in toddlers and older children, while diarrhea is often caused by infections in younger children.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Changes in how often your child does a poo
• Hard, dry or painful poo
• Loose, watery or urgent poo
• Stomach cramps or discomfort
• Bloating or nausea

Symptoms in children

• Pooing fewer than three times a week (for constipation)
• Pooing more than three times a day (for diarrhea)
• Straining or crying during a poo
• Soiling (leaking small amounts of poo into underwear)
• Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly
• Tummy pain that comes and goes

Symptoms in older adults

• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• A change in bowel habits that lasts more than a few weeks

Causes

Main causes

• Viral or bacterial infections (a tummy bug)
• Constipation from too little fiber or fluid
• Overuse of the toilet (holding in poo)
• Food intolerances or allergies
• Medicines (ask your healthcare provider)
• Stress or changes in routine

Risk factors

• Being a toddler or preschooler
• Not eating enough fruits, vegetables, or whole grains
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Recent illness with diarrhea or vomiting
• A family history of bowel problems

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your child has any of the emergency symptoms above
• If your child is under 6 months old and has a fever or is very sleepy
• If you see blood or mucus in the poo

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your child has had diarrhea for more than a week
• If constipation lasts more than two weeks despite home care
• If your child is losing weight or not growing well

Diagnosis

Your healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, poo pattern, diet, and fluid intake. They may gently feel your child's tummy. For most children, no tests are needed.

Tests that may be done

• Stool sample (to check for infections)
• Blood test (for dehydration or inflammation)
• Imaging tests like an X-ray (in rare cases, to look for blockage)

What to expect at your appointment

Your healthcare provider will explain what might be causing the symptoms and give you advice on how to help your child. They may ask you to keep a diary of poos and symptoms. In most cases, you will not need a specialist.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause. The first steps are usually about keeping your child hydrated, adjusting their diet, and helping them feel comfortable. Always ask your healthcare provider before giving any medicine to a child.

Self-care at home

• Offer plenty of fluids, such as water or clear soups, to prevent dehydration.
• For constipation, gradually add more fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Encourage your child to sit on the toilet after meals, and give them time to relax.
• Praise your child for trying, even if they don't pass a poo.
• For diarrhea, continue feeding your child their normal food, but avoid sugary drinks and very spicy or fatty foods.

Medical treatments

If home care is not enough, your healthcare provider may recommend oral rehydration powders (mixed with water) for diarrhea, or a gentle laxative for constipation. Antibiotics are only used for certain bacterial infections. Never share medicines or use leftover medicines from another child.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed. It is only considered for serious conditions, such as a blocked bowel, that do not get better with other treatments.

Living with this condition

Help your child build a regular toilet routine. Watch for signs that they need the toilet, and let them go without delay. Keep a positive attitude about poo and bodies.

Lifestyle tips

• Make sure your child gets enough physical activity every day.
• Provide regular meals and snacks with a variety of foods.
• Limit sugary drinks and encourage water between meals.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of fiber and water helps keep poo soft and the bowel moving. Daily exercise also helps the muscles that move food through the body.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Bowel problems can cause embarrassment or anxiety in older children. Reassure your child that this is common and that you are there to help. If you notice ongoing worry, speak to your healthcare provider.

Prevention

Many bowel problems can be prevented by keeping a healthy diet and routine. Encourage regular toilet times and enough fluids.

Vaccines

Vaccines are available for some infections that can cause diarrhea, such as rotavirus. Ask your healthcare provider about your child's vaccination schedule.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for bowel problems in healthy children. Screening may be offered if a child has ongoing symptoms or a family history.

Complications

If left untreated

• Dehydration from diarrhea or vomiting
• Severe constipation leading to a blocked bowel
• Soiling (leaking poo) due to long-term constipation
• In very rare cases, a bowel infection can spread to other parts of the body

Long-term outlook

With the right care and support, most children recover quickly and have no lasting problems. Your healthcare team will help you and your child through every step.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.