What are the symptoms of constipation in children?

If your child occasionally passes stools that look small and lumpy like pellets this is often a good indicator of constipation. Pain and discomfort while going to the toilet can be other signs to look out for as well. If your little one has soiled their pants this can also be a sign, as diarrhoea can sometimes leak around hard poo that is stuck in their colon. If your little one is able to speak, they will often tell you it is very painful for them to go to the toilet.

Children can display a range of other signs, including:

• A lack of energy
• A loss of appetite
• Excessively smelly wind and poo
• Increased irritability
• Stomach pain
• General feelings of being unwell