Irritable bowel syndrome

Have you ever had these tummy aches ----that everyone has dismissed as a pain of convenience. My own mother always thought it was my most played excuse to stay out of school.

Finally after going through a series of tests and half a dozen doctors i finallly had a diagnosis-irritable bowel syndrome.

So what is irritable bowel syndrome and how common is it?

It is chronic disorder that can cause abdominal pain ,bloating and abnormal bowel movements. About 15-20% of school aged children . Children with irritable bowel syndrome complain of bloating,abnormal bowel movements. They complain of constipation alternating with diarrhea. The abdominal pain is diffuse, occurs any time of the day. It may be non -existent for weeks  and then on a warm sunny morn when you have the whole day planned out the pain may recur.

What causes IBS?

Although the exact cause is not known, It is postulated that some chemicals secreted by the intestines  or brain, may cause the intestine  to be more sensitive to triggers like stretching of the intestine .

How is it Diagnosed?

A careful history of how of the site onset and character of the pain may help distinguish it from more serious problems. It is also quite possible that the doctor may obtain some tests. The reason for these tests is to look for signs of any serious disease. These screening tests may initially include blood and stool tests. The results of screening tests often guide the doctor in deciding whether further tests are needed .Often times a referral to pediatric gastroentrologist shall be made.

If any of the tests come back abnormal-then definitely its not Irritable bowel syndrome . Further testing like endoscopies or imaging studies such as CT scans and upper Gi series may be required.

It is also recommended to watch out for these red flags:

Weight loss

diarrhea with blood

Joint pains and rashes

Pain that is not easily controled and is different form the usual

The primary care doctor needs to be informed. Depending upon the case a visit to the Emergency may also be necessary.

So does your child have IBS ?

Does your child have pain in the tummy that has been present for weeks-

• Gets relieved with defecation
• Is often associated with a change in the frequency of stool.
• Onset is associated with constipation alternating with diarrhea.

Other symptoms that may or not be present:

• Abnormal stool form
• Abnormal stool passage(straining,urgency or incomplete evacuation)
• Passage of mucus
• Bloating or feeling of abdominal distension

Treatment

Physicians know that stress and anxiety do not cause the problem. But they do aggravate it. So things that could be done and are under our control are:

• Establish a good relationship with a physician
• Eat more fiber
• Avoid fatty foods. Fatty foods may aggravate symptoms in children with IBS
• Medications: such s antispasmodics can temporarily relieve symptoms
• in cases where there is a tendency to be more constipated-laxatives may be used. Diarrhea may also be an issue that can be relived by the use of anti-diarrheal medications
• Reduce stress .Relaxation and behavioral techniques are always helpful.
• The most important thing is to understand your child and his needs.

What do i anticipate in the future?

Irritable bowel syndrome may have negative effects on the child’s physical and psychological state. The pain may interfere with school attendance, participation in sports and other extra-curricular activities. Infrequently, it may affect appetite and sleep

Fortunately, the diagnosis of functional abdominal pain has a good prognosis. Half of these children getting better on their own .

Please feel free to post your comments or ask any questions.

Ritu Walia

Comments

[Mark philip]

that is really good information on IBS.