The travel and treats of holidays can make for great times, but it can also lead to painful constipation for children, according to a news release from the Nationwide Children's Hospital.

And rather than a minor inconvenience, it can be painful and costly, Dr. Carlo Di Lorenzo said. One in four children has problems at some point, and he said treating it costs nearly $4 billion a year, about as much as treating asthma or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

It can also make children feel bad about themselves, said Dr. Hayat Mousa.

"It's traumatic to them, then they end up with low self-esteem, as if something is wrong with them and it's really not," Mousa said.

The doctors said that the problems can be caused by simple things such as not eating enough fiber or fruits and vegetables, not wanting to use unfamiliar bathrooms and ignoring the urge to go while playing.

"And children have a very concrete way of thinking. If something doesn't feel good (they think), 'I'll never do that again," Di Lorenzo said.

Most of the time, it can be cured with diet changes or mild medication, the news release said. Also, the experts suggested talking with children about bowel movements and making sure he or she has one at least every other day.

If nothing happens for three or four days, try prune or apple juice, or a warm bath.