Gastrointestinal Problems in Children

Early infancy and childhood is often a time of worry for new parents when it comes to the health of their child. Nearly all children complain of a stomachache now and then, and most of the time it isn't anything serious, but occasionally, gastrointestinal symptoms can mean more than a simple upset stomach. New parents may rest easier if they take the time to familiarize themselves with both common and uncommon gastrointestinal problems that a child might experience.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is one of the most common gastrointestinal problems in children under 5. It is typically caused by an infection and can be a serious condition if left untreated. In the United States and Canada, children average two episodes of diarrhea each year, but in developing countries, some children experience frequent episodes, which may have a negative effect on their development and can lead to malnutrition. Symptoms of diarrhea are achiness, stomach pain and nausea.

Constipation

Constipation is also a common gastrointestinal problem among young children. Its primary definition is infrequent and hard bowel movements, and its symptoms are stomach cramps, pain when passing bowel movements, and no bowel movements for three days or longer. This childhood problem can often be difficult to recognize and diagnose. It's one of the main reasons children are sent to a hospital or to a pediatric gastrointestinal specialist.

Gastroesophageal Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux, or GERD, is an increasing problem for young children and adolescents that can be difficult to diagnose. The condition involves acid and stomach contents rising or backing up into the esophagus. Most people experience reflux at some point in their lives, but if it occurs at an abnormally frequent rate, it could indicate a chronic condition. Untreated acute gastroesophageal reflux can cause damage to the esophagus. Its symptoms include heartburn, severe nighttime pain and an unusual feeling of fullness.

Lactose Intolerance

A very rare stomach problem for children is primary lactase deficiency, or lactose intolerance. A serious form of this disorder occurs in a small number of babies who are born with an absence or deficiency of lactase, the natural enzyme that helps break down the complex sugars present in dairy products like yogurt and cheese. Temporary lactose intolerance in infants and children is usually caused by an infection or by the rotavirus. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating and flatulence.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can also be a problem for babies and older children. IBD has two types, or categories: Crohn's disease and Ulcerative Colitis. It's estimated that, out of every 100,000 children under 15, two or three of them will be diagnosed with some form if IBD every year. IBD has a number of associated symptoms, including rectal bleeding and bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps and an urgent need to use the toilet.