Constipation

Children with constipation may open their bowels less than once every three days; pass occasional very large motions, or have more frequent small motions; stools may be different textures and may be offensive smelling; they may withhold or strain to prevent themselves from passing large painful stools and may have problems with abdominal pain and distension, or soiling. Children with constipation often have reduced appetite, are unhappy, irritable or moody and may have reduced energy levels. All of the latter symptoms may improve for a time after a large bowel motion.