Key points about irritable bowel syndrome
- irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that affects how the digestive system works
- IBS is different from inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis)
- IBS can be uncomfortable but does not damage the digestive system
- tamariki (children) with IBS may have cramping tummy pain, bloating, runny poo (diarrhoea) and constipation
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is not the same as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
What is irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that affects the digestive system. Tamariki with IBS may have cramping tummy pain, bloating, diarrhoea or constipation. Although IBS can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, it does not cause serious health problems. Changes to diet and lifestyle can help tamariki manage their IBS symptoms.
IBS is different from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Causes of irritable bowel syndrome
The cause is not known
The exact cause of IBS is not known. But there are some things that may contribute to it.
Things that may contribute to IBS
A fast or slow digestive system
Tamariki with IBS may be more sensitive to tummy pain, discomfort and feelings of fullness. Their digestive system may also move food through the gut more quickly or more slowly than usual.
Changes in gut bacteria
IBS can develop after changes in the balance of bacteria in the gut. This can happen after an infection such as gastroenteritis.
Family history
Tamariki with IBS may have a family member with IBS.
Certain foods
For some tamariki, certain foods can make IBS symptoms worse. These include:
- milk
- chocolate
- drinks containing caffeine
- foods that cause gas such as baked beans
- fatty foods
- artificial sweeteners
Stress and anxiety
Some tamariki with IBS may be more sensitive to stress and anxiety. The nerves in the digestive tract are connected to the brain. Things such as family stress and school pressures can affect how the digestive system works.
Sometimes, what triggers IBS symptoms might not be clear
Parents and caregivers may not always find a clear trigger for their child's IBS symptoms.
Signs and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome
Common symptoms
The most common symptoms of IBS in tamariki are:
- crampy tummy pain
- changes in bowel habits, including runny poo (diarrhoea) or constipation
If your child has IBS, they will usually have a sore tummy with at least 2 of the following symptoms:
- feeling better after doing a poo
- doing a poo more or less often than usual
- diarrhoea or constipation
In IBS these symptoms happen at least 3 times a month.
Diarrhoea means having loose, watery poo 3 or more times a day. It can also cause an urgent need to do a poo.
Constipation means having firm, hard or painful poo that is hard to pass. Some tamariki who poo less than every 3 days may also have constipation.
Constipation is much more common in tamariki than IBS.
Other symptoms
Other symptoms of IBS may include:
- feeling that a poo is not completely finished
- passing mucus in the poo
- feeling bloated
- more farting and burping
Diagnosing irritable bowel syndrome
Talking with a health professional
Health professionals often diagnose IBS by examining your child and asking about their symptoms.
Answering questions about poo, farting and other bowel symptoms can be embarrassing for tamariki. Before the appointment, tell your child that health professionals discuss these things often. Let them know that this information will help the health professional work out what is happening.
Family history and causes of stress
Your health professional may ask whether anyone else in the whānau has IBS or other digestive system problems. They may also ask about stress at home or at school.
Food diary
Your health professional may suggest keeping a food diary to see whether certain foods trigger your child's symptoms.
Tests
Most tamariki with IBS do not need any tests. A health professional may arrange tests to check that another medical condition is not causing the symptoms.
Managing irritable bowel syndrome
There's not a simple way to get rid of IBS. But many things can help reduce symptoms and improve your child's quality of life.
Changes in eating
Some tamariki with IBS find that changes to their diet help reduce symptoms. Your child may need to avoid foods that trigger their symptoms, such as:
- foods that include milk and dairy products
- drinks containing caffeine
- foods that cause gas like baked beans
Some tamariki find that eating smaller, more frequent meals helps. Your health professional may also suggest a special diet called the FODMAP diet.
Check out the Monash University website for some IBS resources as well as information about FODMAPs.
Recognising and dealing with stress and anxiety
Talk with your child about any worries they may have and how you can help. This may include pressures related to school, home or friendships. If school is causing stress, it may help to talk with your child's school.
Talk with your child's health professional if you are concerned about anxiety or low mood.
Breathing exercises and other relaxation techniques can help some tamariki with IBS.
Exercise
Regular exercise can help digestion. It can also help tamariki manage stress and anxiety.
Sleep
Make sure your child gets enough sleep.
Medicines
Your child's health professional may prescribe medicine. These may be used to help treat constipation, diarrhoea or tummy cramps. Some tamariki may need to see a paediatrician (children's health specialist) for help managing ongoing pain.
Talk with your child's health professional before giving your child any over-the-counter medicines.