Irritable Bowel Syndrome In Children

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is considered to be a functional disorder. A functional disorder is often characterized by subjective sensations and symptoms for which quantifiable measures cannot be assessed. In the case of IBS pain, for example, there is no objective measure to indicate its severity. Contrast this the pain associated with an ulcer. Here damage in the tissues of the intestines can be observed.

While the condition is most prevalent among people aged 20 years and above, it can also be observed among children. However, the symptoms are milder and usually manifests with minimal symptoms. Often, aggravated diarrhea or constipation is mistakened for Irritable Bowel Syndrome so it is important that once the child is observed with the signs of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or any condition closely resembling IBS, doctor's assistance is immediately sought.

The two main symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome among children are constipation and diarrhea (or the combination of both) and crampy sensation within the abdominal area.

Diarrhea is the sudden change in the frequency of bowel movements. Often, this is characterized with the sudden and uncontrollable urge to evacuate stool that normally leads to incontinence. Diarrhea is also characterized with fluid-like stool that are supposed to be easier to release. Incomplete evacuation may also be felt and immediate expulsion is needed right after the first bowel movement.

Diarrhea can lead to complications like dehydration or loss of substantial water in the body. PArents need to seek medical attention once this is observed.

Constipation, on the other hand, is the condition wherein there is a compaction of stool means that the stool is too hard to pass through the anus. The immediate treatment to is to add extra amount of dietary fiber in the food to add bulk to the stool. If this is the primary sign for Irritable Bowel Syndrome in your child, it is best to check if he has skipped bowel movements in the last several days.

Irritable bowel syndrome does not pose an immediate, direct threat to the general health to children since it is a chronic condition. However, to avoid aggravated discomfort, it is best to seek out medical attention.