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Many children suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) that can develop at a young age. IBS may be diarrhea-predominant, constipation-predominant, or have a variable stool pattern and affects boys and girls equally. Headache, nausea, or mucus in the stool are the other symptoms associated with IBS. A child may also suffer from weight loss if he/she starts eating less to try to avoid pain. The first symptoms of IBS may develop after some children experience a stressful event, such as teething, a bout with the flu, or problems at school or at home. Stress does not cause IBS, but it can trigger symptoms.

Diagnosis of IBS:

The doctor will ask questions about symptoms and examine the child to rule out more serious problems or diseases when checking for IBS. IBS is actually a syndrome, or group of symptoms that occur together. This condition will not cause damage of the intestine. IBS can be treated by making some changes in diet-eating more fiber and less fat to help prevent spasms. You can also inculcate proper bowel training in children to prevent IBS. This includes teaching the child to empty the bowels at regular, specific times during the day. Laxatives are rarely prescribed to children as they become more addicted to it than adults. When using laxatives, parents must follow the doctor’s instructions carefully. Stress management techniques can also be taught to children for effective cure from IBS.

Symptoms:

IBS may cause abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and similar problems. It can cause recurring abdominal pain in children as it is a functional disorder caused by a problem in the intestines.

There are many differences with respect to IBS in children and adults. The doctor will try to understand the symptoms before treating IBS in children. Mostly the child is prescribed a change of diet and is asked to consume more water and avoid greasy foods etc. Medications are also often recommended with utmost care because medications affect children a lot differently than they do adults.

Treatment

lthough a simple change in diet or medication can remove the symptoms of irritable bowel if this is not sufficient then hypnosis, yoga, and other relaxation techniques are often prescribed that will help to reduce stress and help relieve the symptoms associated with the condition. As stress in many causes this problem, yoga and other relaxation techniques will also give a good remedy for this problem.

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