Over a decade ago, investigators noted that approximately half of the women attending a gynecology clinic had symptoms (e.g., abdominal pain, change in bowel pattern) compatible with a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). What can be said about IBS in Women? Since that study, a number of other studies have demonstrated a higher prevalence […]
Effects of FODMAPs on the Gut – Fluid Changes and Production of Intestinal Gas There is new evidence that suggests that the benefits of a particular diet depend on the gut microbial composition. We need a better idea of what a specific diet does to the gut microbes and microbial metabolites, and how these substances […]
IFFGD has developed a Personal Daily Diary that is intended to help you gain a better understanding of your bowel disorder. By keeping a detailed record of diet, medication, stool consistency, frequency, continence, pain, emotional status, and exercise, a clearer understanding may start to emerge for you and/or your physician to determine the best treatment […]
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal (GI) condition that causes recurrent attacks of abdominal pain or discomfort in association with bowel habits. This condition affects up to 5-10% of individuals worldwide and it can affect children and adults of both genders. Although irritable bowel syndrome does not shorten a person’s life span, it is […]
Question My 2 ½ year old son is having some problems with constipation. He was born 2 months premature. When it was time to start introducing formula (about 1 week after birth), his system couldn’t handle increasing the amount of formula and he had a disease called NEC. [Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an acute inflammatory […]
Is enterocolitis after treatment for Hirschsprung’s disease a concern? Question – My son was diagnosed with Hirschsprung’s disease at 4 months old. He then had a pull-through surgery. He was also diagnosed with enterocolitis. He is 4 years old now and every time he takes antibiotics (for the flu, ear/sinus infections, etc.) he is required […]
What is CVS? Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a disorder of the stomach with repeated episodes of severe nausea and vomiting that alternate with symptom free periods. It occurs in children and adults. What are the signs and symptoms of cyclic vomiting syndrome? The symptom episodes tend to follow the same pattern in each person […]
Symptom overlap is common among several functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. For instance, care must be taken not to confuse functional dyspepsia with other common disorders that may cause upper gastrointestinal distress, like heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), functional abdominal bloating, and functional biliary disorders. Functional dyspepsia is identified based on symptoms. […]
Structure of the colon Barium enemaThere are multiple methods available to examine the structure of the colon. One method uses a contrast material that can be seen on x-ray (barium enema) to outline the anatomy of the colon. A barium enema consists of the injection of radiation-dense barium through the anus into the colon. The […]
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 […]
Delayed Gastric Emptying- Gastroparesis (GP) The symptoms of delayed gastric emptying include nausea and vomiting. Poor emptying of the stomach can occur for several reasons: The outlet of the stomach (the pylorus and duodenum) may be obstructed by an ulcer or tumor, or by something large and indigestible that was swallowed. The pyloric sphincter at […]