What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common intestinal problem that can cause cramps,
gas, bloating, diarrhea,
and constipation.
It's sometimes called a "nervous stomach" or a "spastic colon." Certain foods can
trigger the symptoms of IBS. So can anxiety, stress, and infections.
Although IBS can be uncomfortable and embarrassing for kids, it doesn't cause serious
health problems. Doctors can help kids manage IBS symptoms with changes in diet and
lifestyle. Sometimes doctors will prescribe medicines to help relieve symptoms.
Causes of IBS
The specific cause of IBS is unknown, though it tends to run in families. Kids
with IBS may be more sensitive to belly pain, discomfort, and fullness than kids who
don't have IBS. Some foods — like milk, chocolate, drinks with caffeine,
gassy foods, and fatty foods — also tend to trigger IBS. Sometimes,
people never find out what triggers their IBS symptoms.
Some kids with IBS tend to be more sensitive to stress and emotional upsets. Because
nerves in the colon are linked to the brain, things like family problems, moving,
taking tests, or even going on vacation can affect how the colon works.
Symptoms of IBS
People with IBS have belly pain or discomfort and a change in bowel habits (pooping).
Other signs of IBS may include bloating, belching (burping), flatulence (farting),
heartburn, nausea (feeling sick), and feeling full quickly.
IBS symptoms last for at least 3 months and include at least two of the following:
- pain or discomfort that feels
better after a bowel movement
- pain or discomfort together
with changes in how often a person has to go to the bathroom
- pain or discomfort along with
changes in the way the stool (poop) normally looks. Some people get constipated and
their stools become hard (and difficult to pass). Others have diarrhea.