A short bout of abdominal pain and diarrhea or constipation now and then is not unusual. But long-term or recurring symptoms are not normal. They may signal irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – and are generally treatable. A key to achieving relief for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the understanding that IBS is a complex motility […]
If your child has fecal or bowel incontinence, you need to see a doctor to determine the cause and treatment. Fecal incontinence can occur in children because of a birth defect or disease, but in most cases it’s because of chronic constipation. How can constipation lead to fecal incontinence? Potty-trained children often get constipated simply […]
The guiding principles in the management of constipation Functional constipation can be successfully managed in most children. The main components of a treatment plan include: Parental education and understanding of the factors at play Maintenance of soft and well lubricated stools Avoidance of the pain associated with the passage of stool by good care of […]
Specialized testing for constipation is typically reserved for patients with chronic constipation that is severe or difficult to treat. All such patients should undergo colonoscopy or barium enema to exclude an anatomic cause as well as the basic series of blood tests to exclude abnormalities that can cause constipation. If these studies are normal, a […]
In Honor of National Gastroparesis Awareness Month Hon. Gwen Moore of Wisconsin in the House of Representatives Thursday, July 9, 2015 Ms. MOORE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of Americans affected by gastroparesis, also known as delayed gastric emptying, in observance of National Gastroparesis Awareness Month in August. Gastroparesis is a chronic medical […]
Medications have been shown to be effective in treating chronic constipation in multi-center, high quality clinical trials. These are prescription medications intended for specific use under a healthcare provider’s supervision. Be sure to take any medication as directed. Always tell your health care providers about all the medicines you are taking, including over the counter […]
Disorder
What is bloating and distension? Bloating can be described as the feeling that there is an inflated balloon in the abdomen. It is a commonly reported symptom and is sometimes associated with distension, or the visible increase in the width of the area between your hips and chest (abdominal girth). Both bloating and distension cause […]
Personal Story
Jorge Castto’s Personal Story: Battling Rectal Prolapse, Constipation, and Chronic GI Pain Hi everyone, my name is Jorge and I currently live in north Georgia. About a week ago during one of my frustrations, I stumbled upon this website. And I am just astonished at the story’s and even though I know that GI problems […]
In 2008, the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) awarded three $50,000 research grants. The grants were for research related to functional gastrointestinal and motility disorders, and neurogastroenterology. The winning proposals were for research that would ultimately lead to improvements in the understanding of these disorders, their pathophysiology, and the care of patients. 2008 […]
Personal Story
Anon’s Personal Story: Digestive Pain and the Uncertainty of an IBS Diagnosis Firstly, thank you all for sharing your stories. Two hours into my latest “attack” (we’re in for a long night people) and I feel comfort in knowing that there are others who understand me. I’ve always had problems with my digestion, I remember […]
Do you suffer from Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (rGERD)? IFFGD has been working with the International Working Group for the Classification of Oesophagitis (IWGCO) to create a survey to better understand the illness experience of those with Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (rGERD). Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (rGERD) is very common and may affect up to 40% […]
Sleep disturbances are recognized as a common problem for children and adolescents with chronic pain conditions. Sleep problems have been found in up to 45% of children with functional GI disorders. Difficulties falling asleep and staying asleep are most commonly reported. Adolescents have more trouble falling asleep than younger children. Sleep problems may negatively affect […]