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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) describes a common group of symptoms that often includes abdominal pain associated with changes in bowel movements.

IBS occurs if there is pain or if there are changes in the bowel movement. These symptoms are not the same in everybody.

Pediatric GI doctor
View Child-Friendly Explanation

Pediatric gastroenterologists are not sure what causes irritable bowel syndrome. The nerves and muscles in the bowel appear to be extra sensitive in people with IBS. Muscles may contract too much when a child eats. These contractions can cause cramping and diarrhea during or shortly after a meal. Another possibility is that nerves may react when the bowel stretches causing cramping or pain.

IBS can be painful, but it does not damage the colon or other parts of the digestive system. IBS does not lead to other health problems.

Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include:

  • Abdominal bloating
  • Abdominal pain
  • Alternating diarrhea and constipation
  • Chronic constipation
  • Chronic diarrhea
  • Discomfort in the abdomen (relieved by or associated with a bowel movement)
  • Feeling that a bowel movement is not finished

Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

If your child experiences symptoms of IBS, a pediatric gastroenterologist can usually diagnose the condition based on symptoms alone. Sometimes, they will order tests to rule out other conditions that have similar symptoms (like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease). Diagnostic exams and tests include:

Treatments

Irritable bowel syndrome has no cure, but you can help your child take actions to relieve symptoms. Treatment may involve:

  • Nutrition diary. Your child's pediatric gastroenterologist may recommend keeping a diary that tracks:
    • What your child eats during the day
    • What symptoms they have
    • When symptoms occur
    • What foods always make them feel sick
  • Dietary changes. After keeping the diary,you may find your child should avoid:
    • Carbonated drinks like soda
    • Caffeinated drinks like coffee and some sodas
    • Chocolate
    • Fatty foods like french fries
  • Medicine. Your child's pediatric gastroenterologist may give him or her medicine to help with symptoms. Medicines for IBS include:
    • Laxatives. Laxatives treat constipation. Many kinds of laxatives are available. Your child's doctor can help you find the laxative that is right for your child.
    • Antispasmodics. Antispasmodics control spasms in the colon and help ease abdominal pain.
    • Antidepressants. Antidepressants given in lower doses than used for treating depression can help reduce the abdominal discomfort or pain associated with IBS and, depending on the type chosen, may help diarrhea or constipation.
  • Stress relief. Emotional stress does not cause IBS, but it can make symptoms worse. Learning to reduce stress can help with IBS. With less stress, your child may have less cramping and pain.

Key Points to Remember

  • Irritable bowel syndrome can cause cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation.
  • A pediatric gastroenterologist will diagnose IBS based on symptoms. Sometimes a child may need to have medical tests to rule out other health problems.
  • Stress does not cause IBS, but it can make your child's symptoms worse.
  • Fatty foods, chocolate and caffeinated and carbonated drinks can trigger symptoms.
  • Treatment for IBS may include medicine, stress relief and changes in eating habits.

Support Services & Resources

Visit the websites below to find support groups and services and learn more about irritable bowel syndrome.

Riley at IU Health offers a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.

Learn More About Riley Support Services

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

This National Institutes of Health website offers in-depth information about IBS symptoms, treatments and clinical trials.

AboutKidsGI

This website from the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders provides extensive information about IBS in children and teens.

Locations

Locations

In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.

Sort through 7 facilities offering Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) care by entering your city or zip below.

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Departments Treating This Condition