Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) common in children? While IBD is not as common as regular tummy troubles, about 25% of IBD cases are diagnosed before age 20, and it's important to know the signs.
IBD is different from regular loose motion or pet dard (stomach pain) that children get occasionally. If your child has persistent bloody diarrhea, ongoing stomach pain, unexplained weight loss, or growth problems, it's important to get checked. But here's the reassuring news: most children with IBD can live normal, active lives with proper treatment. Early diagnosis and the right care make a huge difference.
What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?
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IBD is a chronic (long-term) condition where the digestive system becomes inflamed. It's NOT the same as:
Regular loose motion
Food poisoning
Occasional kabz (constipation)
Temporary stomach bug
Two Main Types:
1. Crohn's Disease:
Can affect any part of the digestive tract (mouth to bottom)
Affects all layers of the intestinal wall
May cause fistulas or strictures
More common in adolescents
2. Ulcerative Colitis:
Only affects the large intestine (colon) and rectum
Affects the inner lining only
Causes ulcers that bleed
Slightly more common in younger children
What Causes IBD in Children?
The exact cause is not fully understood, but it involves:
Immune System Problem:
Body's defense system mistakenly attacks healthy gut tissue
Causes ongoing inflammation
Genetic Factors:
Runs in families (20-25% have a family member with IBD)
Having a parent or sibling with IBD increases risk
Environmental Triggers:
Diet may play a role (not the cause, but can trigger flares)
Stress can worsen symptoms
Infections may trigger onset in some cases
Important: IBD is NOT caused by:
Something you fed your child
Bad hygiene
Stress alone
Spicy food
Symptoms to Watch For
Common Digestive Symptoms:
Chronic diarrhea (loose motion lasting weeks)
Blood or mucus in potty
Severe pet dard (stomach cramps)
Urgent need to use latrine
Pain or burning during bowel movements
Feeling of incomplete evacuation
Other Symptoms:
Unexplained weight loss
Failure to grow properly (growth delay)
Loss of appetite
Fatigue and weakness
Fever that comes and goes
Pale skin (anemia from blood loss)
Delayed puberty
Outside-the-Gut Symptoms (can occur):
Joint pain and swelling
Skin rashes or ulcers
Eye inflammation (redness, pain)
Mouth ulcers
Bone problems (brittle bones)
When to See a Doctor
Seek immediate care if:
Large amounts of blood in stool
Severe, unbearable pet dard
High fever with bloody diarrhea
Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, no urination)
Unable to eat or drink anything
Severe weakness or fainting
Schedule an appointment if:
Loose motion or diarrhea lasting more than 2-3 weeks
Blood in potty (even small amounts)
Ongoing stomach pain affecting daily life
Weight loss without trying
Child is not growing as expected
Family history of IBD and your child has symptoms
How is IBD Diagnosed?
Your doctor may recommend:
Blood Tests:
Check for anemia and inflammation
Look for nutritional deficiencies
Stool Tests:
Rule out infections
Check for inflammation markers (calprotectin)
Endoscopy/Colonoscopy:
Camera tube to look inside the digestive tract
Done under sedation (child sleeps through it)
Tissue samples taken for biopsy
Imaging:
MRI or CT scan to see extent of disease
Capsule endoscopy in some cases
Treatment Options
IBD is not curable, but it is very manageable. Many children go into remission (no symptoms) for long periods.
Medications:
Anti-inflammatory Drugs:
Mesalamine (5-ASA) - for mild cases
Corticosteroids - for flares (short-term)
Immunosuppressants:
Reduce immune system activity
Azathioprine, Methotrexate
Biologics:
Newer targeted therapies
Infliximab, Adalimumab
Given as injections or infusions
Antibiotics:
For specific complications
Nutritional Therapy:
Special liquid diets can help (especially in Crohn's)
May induce remission without steroids
Exclusive Enteral Nutrition (EEN)
Supplements for deficiencies
Surgery:
May be needed in severe cases
Removing affected portion of intestine
Not first-line treatment, but can be life-changing
Diet and Nutrition for IBD
During Flare-ups:
Low-fiber, easy-to-digest foods
Avoid dairy if lactose intolerant
Small, frequent meals
Plenty of fluids
Avoid spicy, fried, or very fatty foods
Foods That Often Help:
Food
Why It Helps
Khichdi
Easy to digest, gentle on gut
Banana
Binding, provides potassium
Curd (if tolerated)
Probiotics support gut
White rice
Low fiber during flares
Well-cooked vegetables
Nutrients without fiber stress
Lean proteins
Muscle repair and healing
Foods to Limit During Flares:
Raw vegetables and salads
Whole grains and high fiber foods
Spicy foods
Fried and fatty foods
Carbonated drinks
Caffeine
During Remission: Diet can be more liberal, but know your child's triggers.
Living with IBD: Tips for Parents
Managing School Life:
Inform school about child's condition
Ensure easy access to bathrooms
Pack safe snacks
Consider 504 plan or accommodations
Emotional Support:
IBD can be stressful for children
Look for signs of anxiety or depression
Connect with support groups
Consider counseling if needed
Preventing Flares:
Take medications as prescribed
Keep regular follow-up appointments
Maintain a food diary to identify triggers
Manage stress (yoga, meditation, hobbies)
Get adequate sleep
Stay active within limits
What's Normal vs. Warning Sign?
Normal
Warning Sign
Occasional loose motion
Persistent bloody diarrhea for weeks
Pet dard that goes away
Chronic, severe stomach pain
Temporary appetite loss
Ongoing weight loss
Growth spurts and pauses
Consistently falling behind on growth chart
Occasional fatigue
Constant tiredness and weakness
Expert Insight: Dr. Sumitra explains: 'Every baby's poop schedule is different. Some go 7 times a day, some once a week - both can be normal.'
FAQs
Q: Can IBD be confused with normal loose motion or stomach bug?
A: Yes, early IBD can look like a regular stomach infection. The difference is duration - if bloody diarrhea, weight loss, or severe pet dard lasts more than 2-3 weeks, see a doctor. Regular stomach bugs resolve within a week.
Q: Will my child have IBD forever?
A: IBD is a chronic condition, but many children go into remission for years at a time. With proper treatment, most children live normal, active lives. New treatments are making outcomes better every year.
Q: Is IBD the same as IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)?
A: No, they are different. IBD involves actual inflammation and damage to the intestine. IBS is a functional disorder without visible damage. IBD is more serious but both can cause pet dard and bowel issues.
Q: Can my child eat normal food with IBD?
A: During remission, many children can eat a relatively normal diet. During flares, a gentler diet helps. It's about knowing your child's triggers and adjusting accordingly.
Q: Does stress cause IBD?
A: Stress does not cause IBD, but it can trigger flares in someone who already has it. Managing stress is an important part of managing IBD.
Q: Can my child play sports and be active with IBD?
A: Absolutely! In fact, regular physical activity is encouraged and can help with overall wellbeing. During flares, activity may need to be adjusted, but most children with IBD participate fully in sports and activities.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. For personalized advice about IBD in your child, consult with Babynama's pediatric experts on WhatsApp.
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