Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses two distinct types—ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease—which can significantly disrupt the lives of young individuals. If your child is grappling with symptoms indicative of IBD, the proficient pediatric gastroenterologists at Gastro Health For Kids stand ready to offer assistance. Located in Gainesville Georgia our skilled team can adeptly diagnose your child’s condition and furnish expert guidance on effective IBD management. Contact Gastro Health For Kids today to learn more or schedule an appointment online for comprehensive care.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition characterized by intense inflammation in the intestines. Although the symptoms may intermittently subside, IBD typically persists over time. The two main manifestations of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Crohn’s disease has the potential to impact any segment of a child’s gastrointestinal tract, spanning from the mouth to the anus. The inflammation associated with Crohn’s disease can lead to profound and extensive damage to the walls of the bowel.

Ulcerative colitis targets the large intestine (colon) and rectum, leading to the formation of ulcers in the inner lining of a child’s colon, which can produce mucus, pus, and blood.

In comparison, children are twice as prone to developing Crohn’s disease as opposed to ulcerative colitis. The precise cause of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) remains not fully elucidated, but it appears to result from a complex interplay of genetic factors, immune system irregularities, and environmental triggers.

While Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease exhibit distinct symptoms, the most common indicators associated with inflammatory bowel disease include:

• Abdominal pain, tenderness, and cramping
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Rectal bleeding
• Pus or mucus in the stool
• Chronic fatigue
• Depression and anxiety

An acute episode of ulcerative colitis may lead to severe rectal pain, sweating, cramps, and multiple loose, bloody bowel movements per day. In some children, it can result in fecal incontinence.

Furthermore, inflammatory bowel disease can impact growth and potentially delay sexual development in adolescents due to nutritional challenges.

Your child’s symptoms may suggest the possibility of inflammatory bowel disease. To establish a definitive diagnosis and exclude other potential causes, the Gastro Health For Kids team conducts tests on blood and stool samples.

In addition, a colonoscopy may be performed, involving the insertion of a thin tube with a camera (colonoscope) into your child’s rectum and large bowel. This procedure allows the gastroenterologist to visually assess for signs of inflammation or ulceration and obtain samples of the bowel wall for further laboratory analysis.

While inflammatory bowel disease is not curable, there are effective treatments to manage your child’s symptoms. These therapies encompass:

• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Immunosuppressive drugs
• Biologic agents
• Nutrition therapy

Medications play a crucial role in reducing existing inflammation and suppressing the processes that lead to inflammation. In some instances, surgery may be necessary, such as when a blockage in the bowel occurs or if symptoms do not respond to medication.

If you have concerns about your child possibly having IBD, contact Gastro Health For Kids today or schedule an appointment online for timely evaluation and guidance.