Irritable Bowel Syndrome
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) commonly affects children's large intestines. It can cause abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.
What Causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in children is caused by a range of factors, including:
- Stress or anxiety
- Changes in dietary habits
- Food sensitivities or allergies
- Certain medications, such as antibiotics
- Bacterial overgrowth in the gut
- Hormonal changes during puberty
- Digestive abnormalities
Signs & Symptoms
Parents need to keep track of their child's symptoms, including when they started and how frequently they occur. The signs and symptoms of IBS in children may include:
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Bloating and gas
- Constipation (having hard or infrequent stools)
- Diarrhea (loose, watery stools)
- Feeling like there is still stool to be passed after a bowel movement
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Urgent need to have a bowel movement
- Vomiting or retching
Diagnosis
To help arrive at a diagnosis, doctors may ask questions about family history and perform physical examinations.
They may also order blood tests, stool tests, X-rays, or ultrasounds to rule out other conditions such as allergies, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis.
Treatment
The treatment of irritable bowel syndrome in children depends on the individual child and the specific symptoms they are experiencing.
Treatment aims to reduce pain and improve overall gastrointestinal health.
Some suggested treatments for IBS in children include:
- Food avoidance strategies
- Dietary changes
- Medications
- Gut-directed therapy (such as hypnotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy)
- Probiotics
Prevention
Preventing irritable bowel syndrome in children primarily focuses on avoiding triggers and developing healthy habits.
Parents may want to discuss potential triggers with their child's doctor, such as food or stress levels. These include:
- Eating a well-balanced diet
- Getting regular physical activity
- Drinking plenty of water
- Practicing good hygiene
- Getting adequate sleep
The Children's Hospital of San Antonio - Gastroenterology Clinic
The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio Gastroenterology Clinic has a team of professionals providing diagnosis and treatment of common and complex gastrointestinal conditions experienced by children of all ages from premature infants through adolescence.
The Children's Hospital of San Antonio
The Children's Hospital of San Antonio is a leader in providing comprehensive, coordinated care for children from birth to age 18. Our caring teams are committed to providing high-quality service in a comfortable and safe setting.
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