Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Children

Symptoms of IBS in Children

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a group of symptoms affecting the large intestine (large bowel). Symptoms include: 

• Pain 
• Cramping 
• Bloating 
• Changes in bowel movement habits: These changes may be towards constipation (hard stool), diarrhea (soft or fluid stool), or alternating between the two.

What Causes IBS in Children?

No definitive cause has been found and diagnosis is usually made on symptom description only. The condition is most often experienced before age 45 and twice as often in women than in men.

Treatment for IBS

Treatment commonly includes making changes in the diet, stress management, probiotics and medicine.