What should I do if my baby has constipation due to internal heat?
Disease description:
My daughter is three years old. She hasn't had a bowel movement for the past two days. The doctor said it's constipation caused by "excessive internal heat" (a traditional Chinese medicine concept). I'd like to know what I can do to help my child with constipation due to "internal heat"?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
When a baby experiences constipation due to internal heat ("shang huo"), parents can take the following measures to help relieve the condition:
1. Adjust the baby's diet by increasing fiber-rich foods such as fresh vegetables and fruits, while reducing intake of spicy, greasy, and sugary foods to decrease internal heat.
2. Ensure the baby drinks enough water daily to maintain adequate hydration, which helps soften stools and promote bowel movements.
3. Parents can gently massage the baby's abdomen in a clockwise motion to stimulate intestinal motility and relieve constipation.
4. Under medical guidance, give the baby an appropriate amount of probiotics to help regulate gut flora and alleviate constipation.
5. If the baby's symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention promptly for professional diagnosis and treatment.
