Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): How to Care for Your Child

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a chronic (long-lasting) condition that affects the digestive system. In most people who have it, IBS causes belly pain and changes in bowel habits (constipation and/or diarrhea). It may also cause bloating, heartburn, burping, and other symptoms. The symptoms can be bothersome, but IBS doesn't lead to serious medical problems. Diet changes, managing stress, and sometimes medicine can help ease symptoms.

• Give your child any medicines as directed by your health care provider.

• Have your child keep a diary of what they eat and drink and what symptoms they have. This will help them find out what foods trigger symptoms. Common triggers include milk, chocolate, fatty or spicy foods, caffeine, artificial sweeteners, and foods that cause gas (beans, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, etc.).

• Help your child eat a balanced diet. Foods that people with IBS tend to do OK with include:

  • plain pastas and potatoes

  • white bread and rolls

  • plain fish, chicken, and turkey

  • lettuce, cooked peas, and cooked carrots

  • plain, low-sugar cereals with a milk substitute (soy or almond milk)

  • cantaloupe and watermelon

• Smaller, more frequent meals (rather than large meals) may help your child feel more comfortable.

• If your health care provider suggests giving your child more fiber, try apples, prunes, and cooked vegetables. 

• Make sure your child drinks plenty of water throughout the day to help keep their digestive system running smoothly.

• Stress can trigger IBS symptoms, so help your child find healthy ways to cope with stress, such as exercise, deep breathing, meditation, or talking to a counselor. Your health care provider may also recommend hypnosis or biofeedback (training the mind to control the body).

• Physical activity can help improve digestion, lower stress, and reduce IBS symptoms. Encourage your child to find activities they enjoy, such as walking, biking, or yoga.

IBS can be frustrating, so be patient and understanding with your child. Offer support as you work together to avoid triggers and manage their symptoms.

Your child:

• has blood in the stool (poop)

• is eating or drinking less than usual

• is losing weight or not gaining weight as expected

• has worsening belly pain or pain that interferes with sleep

• gets new symptoms, such as vomiting, joint pain, or low energy

Your child has severe belly pain or is vomiting over and over again.

What causes IBS? The exact cause of IBS is not known. Possible causes include:

• abnormal muscle control in the intestines 

• problems in how the brain interprets pain 

• food sensitivities

• inflammation (irritation) in the intestines

• imbalances in the bacteria in the intestines

Is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) the same as irritable bowel disease (IBD)? No, they are different. People with IBD have damage to parts of the digestive tract. Their symptoms tend to get worse over time and lead to other medical problems. People with IBS don't have damage to their digestive tract. Their symptoms may come and go or change over time, but they don't tend to get worse or lead to other problems.