Health Tip: If Your Child is Constipated

Constipation among children often isn't worth worrying about, and resolves on its own. But you shouldn't ignore signs that the problem may be serious, and that your child should be examined by a doctor.

The University of Michigan Health System says these symptoms should be evaluated by a pediatrician:

• If constipation persists longer than one week.
• If there is blood in the child's stool.
• If the child develops hemorrhoids.
• If a bowel movement becomes very painful.
• If the child leaks soft stools or liquid between bowel movements.
• If constipation is accompanied by vomiting.
• If the child's belly is swollen.