Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children

Certain things make a person irritable. Our body encounters irritability, especially with regards to the intestines particularly in the large intestines, which is medically termed as IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The large intestines functions as a water absorbent as well as nutrient absorbent which digest the consumed food which enters the person’s colon via the small intestines. When, it is unabsorbed and undigested it will later on turn into stool.
The child that undergoes Irritable Bowel Syndrome when there is an interruption of the colon’s contents which can’t normally move it as smoothly as possible. In layman’s term that the colon halts and then stops or is too fast or perhaps it does not move at all. Children with such condition have bowels that are sensitive which later cause discomfort and pain.

Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children

The child with Irritable Bowel Syndrome will experience the following symptoms:
1. Stool mucus
2. Bloating of the intestines
3. Abdominal discomfort
4. Pain in the abdomen
5. Bowel habits are irregular
6. Gas or fart
7. Urgency of the bowel movement
8. Stool appearance changes
9. Feeling of non- completion of the emptying of the bowel

Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children

The following diagnosis test is done for children who have irritable bowel syndrome:
1. Complete blood count
2. Rectal exam
3. Urinalysis
4. Stool for ova
5. Breath test
6. Sedimentation rate test
7. Abdominal x rays
8. Colonoscopy
9. Liver function test
The diagnostic test is done to confirm and rule out other disease condition. The test will greatly depend on the child’s health history, family background in the aspects of health, age and the like. As much as possible, only fewer tests are conducted when it comes to children.

Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children

At present, there is no current cure for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The treatment that will be mentioned here are the commonly use for the symptom reduction purposes. What the patient encounters or experiences will be the basis of the treatment given. The child that undergoes Irritable Bowel Syndrome when there is an interruption of the colon’s contents which can’t normally move it as smoothly as possible. In layman’s term that the colon halts and then stops or is too fast or perhaps it does not move at all. Children with such condition have bowels that are sensitive which later cause discomfort and pain. To get rid of it you have to follow the diet for ibs.

Independent Treatment

Changes in the Diet

There is a need for the child to eat many or numerous small meals than few large meals as well as an increase in the fiber rich foods such as whole grain bread, cereals, vegetables and fruits. Aside from that, there is a need to eliminate foods such as dairy products, caffeine, carbonated beverages, and fatty foods. It is suggested that you keep a diary of your bowel habits, diet and symptoms experienced.

Management of Stress

Reduction of anxiety in a child is achieved by telling them that the condition itself is not life threatening. Aside from that, you can also suggest the child to undergo hypnotherapy and cognitive behavior therapy.

Dependent Treatment

Pharmacological Treatment

Medication is prescribed for the treatment of diarrhea and constipation is needed for children with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Medications such as antidepressants, antispasmodics, laxative, and fiber supplement.