Patient's question:
My son just turned one month old. It has been a week since he hasn't had a bowel movement. My friend said it might be constipation. I want to know what the symptoms of constipation are in newborns?Doctor's answer:
The symptoms of constipation in newborns are primarily characterized by small, dry, hard, and pebble-like stools (even if they still defecate daily). Accompanied by difficulties in defecation, pain during defecation, and incessant crying. Blood on the surface of the stool. Stool leakage from the anus. Prolonged defecation time. Straining excessively. Abdominal pain and bloating. Suspicion and fatigue. Loss of appetite. Infants with severe constipation may even develop anal fissures. The occurrence of anal fissures causes fear of defecation in infants. Fear of using the toilet. This creates a vicious cycle. Over time, it may lead to symptoms such as bloating, pain, loss of appetite, and sleep disturbances.