constipation in a 7 month old

[jennyh]

Hi

My daughter is really off her milk and has been for a couple of days. She had a bad cold for a while and its been hanging around in mild stages for the last week or so. She is also teething so is generally very fussy. I am wondering whether she might be a bit constipated and therefore already full to bursting so seems to have very little hunger/appetite. I know that constipation is not an issue in babies but I am exploring the possible reasons for her lack of interest in feedig. I am certain it will pass so I am not concerned but anyone got any tips on how to make it easier for her to poo!!?

Thanks

jenny

[Saffron]

Diluted prune juice: 3 ounces prune juice to 2 ounces warm water. If it doesn't help, it's certainly not going to do any harm. Parents often report digestive changes in their babies during teething. No one really know why this is so. Because the oral cavity is continuous with the gastrointestinal tract, it may simple represent parallel development of different areas of this system simultaneously. Cold viruses can cause digestie changes in babies too, and they can take a while to clear completely. If your LO isn't better in a few days, see the GP. Also, NHS direct by phone is available 24/7. xx

[catgirl]

My 7 month old was very constipated after starting on solids a month ago. I did all the follwing whihc seems to have worked although it took about a week before she was going regularly and without screaming every time!

Stopped giving her bananas and bread

gave her extra water and diluted orange juice, especially with meals

still breastfeeding so gave her a few extra, short feeds so she'd get some more of the watery foremilk

made meals with prunes or prune juice in

gave her pears or pureed pear

She's much happier now!

[lilygogan]

If a child of that age is constipated it's normally because the are dehydrated. I would make sure they are drinking plenty of water and oranges are also good. I work at a nursery and find that this is usually the case. Hope it helps

[jennyh]

Thanks everyone! She has picked up a little and is having a bit more milk so perhaps it's just a combination of becomming fussier generally, and her cold and the teething. I will try those things though bcoz it can't hurt like you say. She does have a good amount of water I think but in the past I think citrus gave her a bit of a rash so I've been avoiding it but I will try again!

Thanks!!