How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Constipation in Children

Audience: pediatric

Constipation in children is common and often manageable with simple steps. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help you understand your child's symptoms and get advice on care. Preparing well for the visit can make it more helpful. This includes noting your child's bowel habits, diet, and any other symptoms. During the visit, the provider will ask questions and may guide you on diet changes, hydration, or when to seek further care. Remember, telemedicine can support education and early advice but cannot replace in-person exams when needed. If your child has severe pain, vomiting, or blood in stool, seek urgent care. This guide helps you get ready for a telemedicine visit about constipation in children, so you can get the best support for your child's health.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe abdominal pain or swelling — seek emergency care immediately.
• Persistent vomiting with constipation — get urgent medical help.
• Blood in stool or black, tarry stools — see a healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of constipation symptoms and history.
• Providing dietary and lifestyle advice to relieve constipation.
• Guidance on safe use of over-the-counter treatments for constipation.
• Education about when to seek in-person or emergency care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination that requires hands-on assessment.
• Diagnosing serious underlying conditions needing imaging or lab tests.
• Managing severe or complicated constipation requiring urgent intervention.
• Prescribing controlled medications that require in-person evaluation.

What Is Constipation in Children?

Constipation means having fewer bowel movements than usual or hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. In children, this can cause discomfort, belly pain, or changes in appetite. Constipation often happens because of diet, dehydration, or changes in routine. It is usually not serious but should be addressed to keep your child comfortable and healthy.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before the visit, keep a diary for a few days noting:

Having this information ready helps the healthcare provider understand your child's condition better.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms and medical history. They may ask to see your child's abdomen or discuss diet and lifestyle habits. They will provide advice on managing constipation, such as increasing fiber and fluids, encouraging physical activity, or safe use of laxatives if needed. The provider will also tell you when to seek in-person care.

When to Seek Urgent Care

Some signs mean your child needs immediate medical attention:

If you notice these, go to the emergency room or call emergency services right away.

Managing Constipation at Home

Most constipation in children improves with:

Avoid forcing or punishing your child around bowel habits, as this can worsen the problem.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Keep a bowel movement diary for 3 days before the visit.
• Note your child's diet, fluid intake, and activity levels.
• List any other symptoms like pain, vomiting, or fever.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Ensure a quiet, private space with good internet connection for the video call.
• Have a device ready with camera and microphone enabled.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on diet and fluids.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and bowel movements.
• Use recommended over-the-counter treatments as directed, if any.
• Schedule an in-person visit if symptoms worsen or red flags appear.
• Keep a follow-up appointment if suggested by the provider.

FAQs

What causes constipation in children?

Constipation in children often results from low fiber intake, not drinking enough fluids, changes in routine, or withholding stool due to fear or discomfort. Sometimes, it can be linked to medical conditions, but this is less common.

Can I treat my child's constipation at home?

Yes, many cases improve with increased fluids, a fiber-rich diet, regular physical activity, and establishing consistent bathroom habits. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider.

When should I worry about constipation in my child?

Seek urgent care if your child has severe belly pain, persistent vomiting, blood in stool, fever, or signs of dehydration. These may indicate a more serious problem.

Can a video visit diagnose my child's constipation?

A video visit can help assess symptoms and provide advice, but it cannot replace a physical exam or tests needed to diagnose serious causes. Your provider will guide you if in-person care is needed.

Are laxatives safe for children?

Some over-the-counter laxatives may be safe for short-term use in children, but always use them under a healthcare provider's guidance to avoid side effects or misuse.

Sources

1. Constipation in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / NIH.
2. Constipation in Children: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
3. Childhood Constipation — American Academy of Pediatrics.
4. Constipation in Children: Diagnosis and Management — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or urgent health concerns, seek immediate medical attention.