Pediatric Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment and Management
Pediatric irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common cause of abdominal pain in children, affecting up to 5 percent of school-aged kids. It is part of a group of disorders known as disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI), formerly called functional gastrointestinal disorders.
Due to a variety of painful and sometimes unpredictable symptoms, pediatric IBS can have a significant effect on the lives of children who have it, and their families. Our doctors are compassionate and skilled at helping children manage their disease.
The dedicated team of RWJBarnabas Health pediatric gastroenterology specialists is here to provide comprehensive care to help your child manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
What Is IBS?
IBS is a chronic condition characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, without any visible abnormalities in the intestine's lining. Unlike inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which involves visible inflammation of the intestine, pediatric IBS does not involve detectable inflammation.
Types of Pediatric IBS We Treat
At RWJBarnabas Health, we treat various forms of pediatric IBS, including:
- IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)
- IBS with constipation (IBS-C)
- Mixed IBS (IBS-M)
Pediatric IBS Causes
The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a heightened sensitivity of the nerves in the intestine. This sensitivity can cause normal stretching pressures within the gastrointestinal tract, which can feel painful. Factors such as anxiety, depression or a history of gastrointestinal infections may contribute to the development of IBS symptoms in children.
Pediatric IBS Symptoms
Children with IBS may experience:
- Abdominal pain
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
- Bloating
- Nausea
- A sense of incomplete evacuation
Pediatric IBS Diagnosis
A diagnosis of pediatric inflammatory bowel syndrome is based on the Rome criteria, created by a panel of experts to define the syndrome. These criteria include:
-
Abdominal pain at least four days per month for at least two months, associated
with one or more of the following:
- Pain related to defecation
- A change in stool (poop) frequency
- A change in stool form (appearance)
- In children with constipation, the pain does not resolve with the resolution of constipation
- After a thorough evaluation, the symptoms cannot be explained by another medical condition
Pediatric IBS Treatments
At RWJBarnabas Health, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to meet the unique needs of each child, including:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It can help children understand and manage stressors that trigger symptoms using techniques such as distraction strategies.
- Anti-spasmodic medications. Medications like hyoscyamine, dicyclomine and peppermint oil can help relax intestinal muscles.
- Neuromodulators. Low doses of antidepressants can reduce the sensitivity of the intestine.
- Low-FODMAP diet. This diet reduces intake of certain sugars (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols) that can cause symptoms.
- IB-Stim. This groundbreaking, FDA-approved, non-surgical treatment improves quality of life and reduces GI symptoms in children ages 11 to 18.
Pediatric IBS Screening
While there are no specific screening tests for pediatric IBS, early intervention and symptom management can improve a child's quality of life. Regular check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers are essential.
Comprehensive Pediatric IBS Care
If your child is experiencing symptoms of pediatric IBS, don’t wait — contact RWJBarnabas Health to schedule an appointment with one of our pediatric gastroenterologists. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest quality care to help your child lead a healthier, more comfortable life.