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Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children

Table of Contents

Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children

IBS in Children; Pediatric IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a group of symptoms that occur together, including repeated pain in the abdomen and changes in bowel movements, which may be diarrhea, constipation, or both. IBS occurs in people of all ages, including children. Read about IBS in children.

Bowel Movements Infant

Image by TheVisualMD

What Is IBS?

3D medical animation still showing Irritable bowel syndrome.

Image by Scientific Animations, Inc.

3D medical animation still showing Irritable bowel syndrome.

3D medical animation still showing Irritable bowel syndrome and tenesmus in the pip.

Image by Scientific Animations, Inc.

What Is IBS in Children?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a group of symptoms that occur together, including repeated pain in the abdomen and changes in bowel movements, which may be diarrhea, constipation, or both. With IBS, a child has these symptoms without any visible signs of damage or disease in the digestive tract.

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder. Functional GI disorders, which doctors now call disorders of gut-brain interactions, are related to problems with how the brain and gut work together. These problems can cause the gut to be more sensitive and change how the muscles in the bowel contract. If a child’s gut is more sensitive, the child may feel more abdominal pain. Changes in how the muscles in the bowel contract lead to diarrhea, constipation, or both.

IBS is a group of symptoms that occur together, including repeated pain in the abdomen and changes in bowel movements.

Does IBS have another name?

In the past, doctors called IBS colitis, mucous colitis, spastic colon, nervous colon, and spastic bowel.

How common is IBS in children?

Studies suggest that about 5 percent of children ages 4 to 18 years old have IBS.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (4)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Functional Abdominal Pain (FAP) in Children and Adolescents

Video by JJ Levenstein, MD/YouTube

What IBS Feels like for Kids | The Challenges of Living with IBS

Video by Feed to Succeed/YouTube

Direct from the Doctor: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Video by The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia/YouTube

IBS in Children: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and More | Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Video by Healthtipz/YouTube

8:15

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Functional Abdominal Pain (FAP) in Children and Adolescents

JJ Levenstein, MD/YouTube

3:42

What IBS Feels like for Kids | The Challenges of Living with IBS

Feed to Succeed/YouTube

3:56

Direct from the Doctor: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia/YouTube

7:44

IBS in Children: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and More | Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Healthtipz/YouTube

Types

Treatment for Constipation

Image by drameetnd

Treatment for Constipation

Liver, digestion, Bile and constipation

Image by drameetnd

Are There Different Types of IBS in Children?

Experts have defined four types of IBS in children. Each type has a different pattern of changes in bowel movements or abnormal bowel movements. Knowing which type of IBS a child has may help the doctor treat IBS symptoms.

IBS with constipation (IBS-C)

In IBS-C, more than a quarter of stools are hard or lumpy, and less than a quarter of stools are loose or watery.

IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)

In IBS-D, more than a quarter of stools are loose or watery, and less than a quarter of stools are hard or lumpy.

IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M)

In IBS-M, more than a quarter of stools are hard or lumpy, and more than a quarter of stools are loose or watery.

IBS unsubtyped (IBS-U)

In IBS-U, less than a quarter of stools are hard or lumpy, and less than a quarter of stools are loose or watery.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (2)

Managing and Treating IBS-C

Video by You and Constipation/YouTube

What is irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and what causes it?

Video by You and Constipation/YouTube

6:06

Managing and Treating IBS-C

You and Constipation/YouTube

1:57

What is irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and what causes it?

You and Constipation/YouTube

Risk Factors

Child Abuse

Image by Child Abuse by Luis Prado from the Noun Project

Child Abuse

Child Abuse

Image by Child Abuse by Luis Prado from the Noun Project

Which Children Are More Likely to Develop IBS?

bacterial infections in the digestive tract
certain emotional or mental health problems, such as stress, depression, and anxiety
events during infancy or early childhood that cause pain or inflammation such as allergies, infections, or surgery
experiencing child abuse
family members with IBS

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (2)

What is IBS? (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

Video by HealthSketch/YouTube

What are the risk factors for IBS-C?

Video by You and Constipation/YouTube

4:07

What is IBS? (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

HealthSketch/YouTube

1:11

What are the risk factors for IBS-C?

You and Constipation/YouTube

Causes

Microbes

Image by Darryl Leja, NHGRI

Microbes

Microbes inhabit just about every part of the human body outnumbering human cells by ten to one.

Image by Darryl Leja, NHGRI

What Causes IBS in Children?

Doctors aren’t sure what causes IBS in children. Experts think that a combination of problems may lead to IBS. Different factors may cause IBS in different children.

Functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders such as IBS are problems with brain-gut interaction—how the brain and gut work together. Experts think that problems with brain-gut interaction may affect how the body works and cause IBS symptoms. For example, some children with IBS may feel pain when a normal amount of gas or stool is in their gut. In some children with IBS, food may move too slowly through the digestive tract.

Certain problems —such as bacterial infections in the digestive tract, emotional and mental health problems, early life events that cause stress or inflammation and child abuse —are more common in children with IBS. Experts think these problems may play a role in causing IBS. Changes in the microbiome—the bacteria in the digestive tract that help with digestion—may also play a role.

Research suggests that genes may make some children more likely to develop IBS.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (5)

Is irritable bowel syndrome real?

Video by Science Animated/YouTube

What is irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and what causes it?

Video by You and Constipation/YouTube

IBS: Anxiety or Infection?

Video by Gemelli Biotech/YouTube

Triggers and Tips for Taming Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Video by Cone Health/YouTube

Gastroenterology professor Robin Spiller on the shared genetics of IBS and anxiety

Video by Nottingham Clinical Research/YouTube

1:35

Is irritable bowel syndrome real?

Science Animated/YouTube

1:57

What is irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and what causes it?

You and Constipation/YouTube

2:06

IBS: Anxiety or Infection?

Gemelli Biotech/YouTube

2:41

Triggers and Tips for Taming Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Cone Health/YouTube

2:28

Gastroenterology professor Robin Spiller on the shared genetics of IBS and anxiety

Nottingham Clinical Research/YouTube

Symptoms

Frustrated Angry Child

Image by mohamed Hassan

Frustrated Angry Child

Frustrated Angry Child

Image by mohamed Hassan

What Are the Symptoms of IBS in Children?

In children with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), the most common symptoms are

pain in the abdomen, often related to bowel movements
changes in bowel movements, which may be diarrhea, constipation, or both, depending on which type of IBS a child has

Other symptoms of IBS in children may include

the feeling that they haven’t finished a bowel movement
mucus in stool
bloating

IBS can be painful, but it doesn’t lead to other health problems or damage the digestive tract.

To diagnose IBS, your child’s doctor will look for a certain pattern in your child’s symptoms over time. IBS is a chronic disorder, meaning it lasts a long time, often years. However, the symptoms may come and go.

To diagnose IBS, your child’s doctor will look for a certain pattern in your child’s symptoms over time.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (4)

What IBS Feels like for Kids | The Challenges of Living with IBS

Video by Feed to Succeed/YouTube

What does having IBS feel like?

Video by Becky Excell/YouTube

How to know if you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Video by Living Better/YouTube

Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Symptoms, Treatment, Research

Video by ESNM/YouTube

3:42

What IBS Feels like for Kids | The Challenges of Living with IBS

Feed to Succeed/YouTube

9:11

What does having IBS feel like?

Becky Excell/YouTube

2:58

How to know if you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Living Better/YouTube

2:59

Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Symptoms, Treatment, Research

ESNM/YouTube

Diagnosis

Temperature indicating fever

Image by Victoria_Borodinova/Pixabay

Temperature indicating fever

Child with fever

Image by Victoria_Borodinova/Pixabay

How Do Doctors Diagnose IBS in Children?

To diagnose irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), doctors review a child’s symptoms and medical and family history and perform a physical exam. In some cases, doctors may order tests to rule out other health problems.

Review of a child’s symptoms

The doctor will ask about a child’s symptoms and look for a certain pattern in the symptoms to diagnose IBS.

The doctor may diagnose IBS if a child has pain in his or her abdomen at least 4 days each month along with one or more of the following symptoms

pain related to bowel movements. For example, the pain may improve or get worse after bowel movements.
a change in how often a child has a bowel movement.
a change in the way a child’s stools look.

The doctor may diagnose IBS if

the child has had symptoms for at least 2 months
the child’s symptoms can’t be fully explained by another health problem

If a child has pain in the abdomen and constipation, the doctor may ask questions about how the pain is related to constipation. If abdominal pain goes away when the constipation goes away, the child may have a functional GI disorder called functional constipation instead of IBS.

The doctor will also ask about symptoms that could suggest a child has another health problem instead of IBS. These symptoms include

arthritis
bleeding from the rectum, bloody stools, or stools that are black and tarry
disease in the tissues around the rectum
nighttime diarrhea
persistent pain in the upper or lower right side of the abdomen
persistent vomiting
problems or pain when swallowing
unexplained fever
weight loss, slowed growth, or delayed puberty

Medical and family history

The doctor will ask about the child’s

diet and foods that may be related to symptoms
history of emotional or mental health problems
history of health problems other than IBS that could be causing the child’s symptoms
medicines
recent infections
stressful events related to the start of symptoms

The doctor will also ask about the child’s family history of IBS and digestive diseases and disorders, such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or peptic ulcer disease.

Physical exam

During a physical exam, a child’s doctor usually

checks for lumps or swelling in the abdomen
checks height and weight
examines the child’s body for signs of health problems other than IBS
listens to sounds in the abdomen using a stethoscope
taps on the abdomen to check for tenderness or pain

During a physical exam, a child’s doctor usually checks for lumps, swelling, tenderness, or pain in the abdomen.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (5)

Do I have IBS ? | Symptoms & Diagnosis | Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Video by JHP Medical UK/YouTube

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Symptoms & Treatments - Ask A Nurse | @LevelUpRN

Video by Level Up RN/YouTube

30 Second IBS Test | GI Society

Video by Gastrointestinal Society/YouTube

How is IBS-C diagnosed?

Video by You and Constipation/YouTube

Diagnosing IBS with Constipation

Video by You and Constipation/YouTube

7:30

Do I have IBS ? | Symptoms & Diagnosis | Irritable Bowel Syndrome

JHP Medical UK/YouTube

5:16

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Symptoms & Treatments - Ask A Nurse | @LevelUpRN

Level Up RN/YouTube

0:29

30 Second IBS Test | GI Society

Gastrointestinal Society/YouTube

2:06

How is IBS-C diagnosed?

You and Constipation/YouTube

3:56

Diagnosing IBS with Constipation

You and Constipation/YouTube

What Tests Do Doctors Use to Diagnose IBS in Children?

Home Stool Test

Image by NCI/NIH

Home Stool Test

Home Stool Test - The kit shown in this picture includes a small stick or wand for collecting a small sample of stool and a card where you place your sample. It’s important to follow instructions about how and when to collect your samples in order to get the most accurate results possible. A single sample collected at the doctor’s office is not enough. Since blood isn't always present, some kits ask for more than one sample and should be collected at home.

Image by NCI/NIH

What Tests Do Doctors Use to Diagnose IBS in Children?

The doctor may order blood tests, stool tests, and other tests to check for health problems other than IBS that could be causing a child’s symptoms.

Blood test

A health care professional will take a blood sample and send the sample to a lab. Doctors use blood tests to check for conditions other than IBS, including anemia, infection, and digestive diseases.

Stool test

The doctor will give the child or a caregiver a container for catching and holding a stool sample, along with instructions on where to send or take the kit for testing. Doctors use stool tests to check for blood in stool or other signs of infections or diseases. A doctor may also do a rectal exam, sometimes during the physical exam, to check for constipation, tenderness in the rectum, and other problems.

Other tests

The doctor may perform other tests to rule out health problems that cause symptoms similar to IBS symptoms. The doctor will decide whether the child needs other tests based on

blood or stool test results
a family history of digestive diseases
symptoms that could be signs of another condition or disease

Other tests may include

imaging tests such as abdominal ultrasound
upper GI endoscopy with a biopsy to check for celiac disease or other problems in the upper GI tract
colonoscopy to check for problems in the lower GI tract such as inflammatory bowel disease

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (2)

Stool Sample

Gross I know, but hey, somebody somewhere needs a "stool sample" clipart image... and this is for them!

Image by j4p4n

Stool sample test for fecal occult blood

Fecal occult blood test.

Image by NIDDK Image Library

Stool Sample

j4p4n

Stool sample test for fecal occult blood

NIDDK Image Library

Bristol Stool Scale Test

Bristol Stool Scale Test

Also called: Bristol Stool Chart, Meyers Scale

The Bristol Stool scale is a medical tool used to assess human stool (poop) based on its shape and how formed or loose it is. Stools are assigned a number from 1 to 7, from hardest to loosest. It may also be used to help diagnose gastrointestinal (GI) issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Bristol Stool Scale Test

Also called: Bristol Stool Chart, Meyers Scale

The Bristol Stool scale is a medical tool used to assess human stool (poop) based on its shape and how formed or loose it is. Stools are assigned a number from 1 to 7, from hardest to loosest. It may also be used to help diagnose gastrointestinal (GI) issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

{"label":"Bristol Stool Scale Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.25,"hideunits":true,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"T1","long":"Type 1","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":1},"text":"Type 1: Separate hard lumps, like nuts (difficult to pass and can be black). This results indicates severe constipation.","conditions":["Severe constipation"]},{"flag":"borderline","label":{"short":"T2","long":"Type 2","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":1,"max":2},"text":"Type 2: Sausage-shaped, but lumpy. This result indicates mild constipation.","conditions":["Mild constipation"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"T3","long":"Type 3","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":2,"max":3},"text":"Type 3: Like a sausage but with cracks on its surface (can be black). Type 3-4 are ideal stools as they are easier to pass.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"T4","long":"Type 4","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":3,"max":4},"text":"Type 4: Like a sausage or snake, smooth and soft (average stool). Type 3-4 are ideal stools as they are easier to pass.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"borderline","label":{"short":"T5","long":"Type 5","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":4,"max":5},"text":"Type 5: Soft blobs with clear cut edges. This result indicates that your stool lacks fiber.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"T6","long":"Type 6","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":5,"max":6},"text":"Type 6: Fluffy pieces with ragged edges, a mushy stool.","conditions":["Mild diarrhea"]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"T7","long":"Type 7","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":6,"max":7},"text":"Type 7: Watery, no solid pieces, entirely liquid.","conditions":["Severe diarrhea"]}],"value":2.5}[{"abnormal":0},{"borderline":0},{"normal":0},{"normal":1},{"borderline":0},{"abnormal":0},{"abnormal":1}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
Your result is Type 3.
Type 3: Like a sausage but with cracks on its surface (can be black). Type 3-4 are ideal stools as they are easier to pass.
Related conditions
1. https://www.bladderandbowel.org/bowel/bowel-resources/bristol-stool-form-scale/ [accessed on Oct 13, 2021]
2. https://www.verywellhealth.com/bristol-stool-chart-4174964 [accessed on Oct 13, 2021]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (1)

Bristol stool chart

The Bristol stool scale or Bristol stool chart is a medical aid designed to classify the form of human faeces into seven categories. Sometimes referred to in the UK as the "Meyers scale", it was developed by Dr. Ken Heaton at the University of Bristol and was first published in the Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology in 1997.

Image by Kyle Thompson

Bristol stool chart

Kyle Thompson

Fecal Culture

Fecal Culture

Also called: Stool Culture, Feces Culture

A fecal culture is a test that is used to detect and identify harmful bacteria in the stool (feces) that can cause gastrointestinal disease. This test does not detect the presence of viruses or parasites.

Fecal Culture

Also called: Stool Culture, Feces Culture

A fecal culture is a test that is used to detect and identify harmful bacteria in the stool (feces) that can cause gastrointestinal disease. This test does not detect the presence of viruses or parasites.

{"label":"Fecal Culture Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.25,"hideunits":true,"items":[{"flag":"negative","label":{"short":"Negative","long":"Negative","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":1},"text":"There are no abnormal bacteria in the stool sample. However, this could mean that the infection may be caused by another microorganism.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"positive","label":{"short":"Positive","long":"Positive","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":1,"max":2},"text":"A positive result will report the name of the pathogenic bacteria, which will most likely be the causal agent of the infection.","conditions":["Campylobacter species","Salmonella species","Shigella species","Aeromonas","Plesiomonas","Escherichia coli","Yersinia enterocolitica","Vibrio species"]}],"value":0.5}[{"negative":0},{"positive":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
Your result is Negative.
There are no abnormal bacteria in the stool sample. However, this could mean that the infection may be caused by another microorganism.
Related conditions
Your doctor may want to order this test if you have signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal infection that could be caused by pathogenic bacteria (gastroenteritis).
Signs and symptoms include:
- Prolonged diarrhea
- Bloody diarrhea
- Mucus in the stool
- Fever
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Nausea
- Presence of leukocytes (white blood cells) in the feces
You must provide a fresh stool sample in a sterile container. To do this, you can either:
- Loosely line a plastic wrap over the toilet bowl and held it in place with the toilet seat.
- Use a special test kit that provides a special toilet tissue that you can use to collect the stool sample.
After collecting the stool by using any of these techniques, you must transfer the sample into the sterile container.
It’s important that you prevent urine, water, or toilet tissue from contaminating the stool sample.
1. Fecal culture: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 24, 2019]
2. LabCorp: Stool Culture [accessed on Jan 24, 2019]
3. Test ID: STL Enteric Pathogens Culture, Feces [accessed on Jan 24, 2019]
4. https://labtestsonline.org/tests/stool-culture [accessed on Jan 31, 2019]
5. https://www.healthline.com/health/stool-culture#process [accessed on Jan 31, 2019]
6. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=stool_culture [accessed on Jan 31, 2019]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (16)

Human Digestive System

3D visualization reconstructed from scanned human data of the human digestive system. The visible organs involved in digestion are the esophagus, stomach and intestines.

Image by TheVisualMD

Stool test

Transport vials filled with human feces for stool testing (parasites and cultures).

Image by Bobjgalindo

Bristol Stool Chart

The Bristol stool scale or Bristol stool chart is a medical aid designed to classify the form of human faeces into seven categories. Sometimes referred to in the UK as the "Meyers scale", it was developed by Dr. Ken Heaton at the University of Bristol and was first published in the Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology in 1997.

Image by Cabot Health, Bristol Stool Chart

Home Stool Test

Home Stool Test - The kit shown in this picture includes a small stick or wand for collecting a small sample of stool and a card where you place your sample. It’s important to follow instructions about how and when to collect your samples in order to get the most accurate results possible. A single sample collected at the doctor’s office is not enough. Since blood isn't always present, some kits ask for more than one sample and should be collected at home.

Image by NCI/NIH

Colon Cancer: At-Home Screening with Stool-Based Testing

Video by uvahealth/YouTube

Constipation in a young child as seen on X-ray

Constipation in a young child as seen on X-ray : Constipation (also known as costiveness or dyschezia, KUB refers to a diagnostic medical imaging technique of the abdomen and stands for Kidneys, Ureters, and Bladder.)

Image by James Heilman, MD

Treatment for Constipation

Liver, digestion, Bile and constipation

Image by drameetnd

Symptoms and Causes of Constipation

Constipation-Causes

Image by PracticalCures.com

Definition and Facts for Constipation in Children

Significant constipation in an 8 year old

Image by James Heilman, MD

Symptoms and Causes of Constipation in Children

Constipation in a young child as seen on X-ray

Image by James Heilman, MD

How to Handle Baby Constipation | Infant Care

Video by Howcast/YouTube

The Poo in You - Constipation and Encopresis Educational Video

Video by GI Kids/YouTube

Bowel incontinence and chronic constipation

Video by Coloplast Stoma Care/YouTube

Treating CONSTIPATION & PAINFUL HARD STOOLS | Encoperesis

Video by paulthomasmd - Dr. Paul/YouTube

Stool Culture

Disease-causing bacteria in the feces can help diagnose an infection of the digestive tract. While certain kinds of bacteria are always present in the feces, an imbalance of germs or bacterial invaders can cause a range of discomfort and negative side effects.

Image by TheVisualMD

Researchers combat ‘traveler’s trots’

Meredith Welsh examines a stool sample in the medical clinic laboratory here. The testing is part of a study designed to standardize treatment of diarrhea. She is a medical technologist assigned to the 39th Medical Group.

Image by U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Joseph Thompson

Human Digestive System

TheVisualMD

Stool test

Bobjgalindo

Bristol Stool Chart

Cabot Health, Bristol Stool Chart

Home Stool Test

NCI/NIH

2:49

Colon Cancer: At-Home Screening with Stool-Based Testing

uvahealth/YouTube

Constipation in a young child as seen on X-ray

James Heilman, MD

Treatment for Constipation

drameetnd

Symptoms and Causes of Constipation

PracticalCures.com

Definition and Facts for Constipation in Children

James Heilman, MD

Symptoms and Causes of Constipation in Children

James Heilman, MD

2:10

How to Handle Baby Constipation | Infant Care

Howcast/YouTube

5:46

The Poo in You - Constipation and Encopresis Educational Video

GI Kids/YouTube

1:32

Bowel incontinence and chronic constipation

Coloplast Stoma Care/YouTube

7:45

Treating CONSTIPATION & PAINFUL HARD STOOLS | Encoperesis

paulthomasmd - Dr. Paul/YouTube

Stool Culture

TheVisualMD

Researchers combat ‘traveler’s trots’

U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Joseph Thompson

Abdominal Ultrasound

Abdominal Ultrasound

Also called: Ultrasound - abdomen, Abdominal sonogram, Abdominal sonography, Right upper quadrant sonogram, Ultrasound of the Abdomen, Ultrasound Imaging of the Abdomen

An abdominal ultrasound uses sound waves to look at organs in the abdomen, including the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys. It may also be used to assess blood flow to abdominal organs. An abdominal ultrasound can help find the cause of stomach pain or bloating, check for kidney stones, liver disease, tumors and many other conditions.

Abdominal Ultrasound

Also called: Ultrasound - abdomen, Abdominal sonogram, Abdominal sonography, Right upper quadrant sonogram, Ultrasound of the Abdomen, Ultrasound Imaging of the Abdomen

An abdominal ultrasound uses sound waves to look at organs in the abdomen, including the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys. It may also be used to assess blood flow to abdominal organs. An abdominal ultrasound can help find the cause of stomach pain or bloating, check for kidney stones, liver disease, tumors and many other conditions.

{"label":"Abdominal Ultrasound Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.25,"hideunits":true,"items":[{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":1},"text":"A normal result indicates that the organs examined appear normal.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Abnormal","long":"Abnormal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":1,"max":2},"text":"The meaning of abnormal results depends on the organ being examined and the type of problem. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.","conditions":["Abdominal aortic aneurysm","Abscess","Appendicitis","Cholecystitis","Gallstones","Hydronephrosis","Kidney cysts","Kidney stones","Pancreatitis (inflammation in pancreas)","Spleen enlargement (splenomegaly)","Portal hypertension","Liver tumors","Obstruction of bile ducts","Cirrhosis"]}],"value":0.5}[{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
Your result is Normal.
A normal result indicates that the organs examined appear normal.
Related conditions
1. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/prostate#additional [accessed on Sep 16, 2019]
2. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/appendicitis/diagnosis [accessed on Sep 19, 2019]
3. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/urinary-tract-imaging [accessed on Sep 16, 2019]
4. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/urine-blockage-newborns/vesicoureteral-reflux [accessed on Sep 16, 2019]
5. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003777.htm [accessed on Oct 09, 2021]
6. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/abdominal-ultrasound [accessed on Oct 09, 2021]
7. https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/abdominus [accessed on Oct 09, 2021]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Upper GI Series

Upper GI Series

Also called: Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Series, UGI

An upper GI series is a procedure in which a doctor uses x-rays, fluoroscopy, and a chalky liquid called barium to view your upper GI tract. It is used to assess frequent heartburn or stomach pain, or if your doctor suspects an ulcer or gastric reflux.

Upper GI Series

Also called: Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Series, UGI

An upper GI series is a procedure in which a doctor uses x-rays, fluoroscopy, and a chalky liquid called barium to view your upper GI tract. It is used to assess frequent heartburn or stomach pain, or if your doctor suspects an ulcer or gastric reflux.

Barium Swallow Test

Barium Swallow Test

Also called: Esophagogram, Esophagram, Swallowing study

A barium swallow is an imaging test that checks for problems in the throat, esophagus, stomach, and part of the small intestine. The test involves drinking a chalky liquid that contains barium. Barium makes parts of the body show up more clearly on an x-ray.

Barium Swallow Test

Also called: Esophagogram, Esophagram, Swallowing study

A barium swallow is an imaging test that checks for problems in the throat, esophagus, stomach, and part of the small intestine. The test involves drinking a chalky liquid that contains barium. Barium makes parts of the body show up more clearly on an x-ray.

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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
Your result is Normal.
A normal result shows that the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine are normal in size, shape, and movement.
Related conditions
A barium swallow is used to help diagnose conditions that affect the throat, esophagus, stomach, and first part the small intestine. These include:
- Ulcers
- Hiatal hernia, a condition in which part of your stomach pushes into the diaphragm. The diaphragm is the muscle between your stomach and chest.
- GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), a condition in which contents of the stomach leak backward into the esophagus
- Structural problems in the GI tract, such as polyps (abnormal growths) and diverticula (pouches in the intestinal wall)
- Tumors
You may need this test if you have symptoms of an upper GI disorder. These include:
- Trouble swallowing
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Bloating
A barium swallow is most often done by a radiologist or radiology technician. A radiologist is a doctor who specializes in using imaging tests to diagnose and treat diseases and injuries.
A barium swallow usually includes the following steps:
- You may need to remove your clothing. If so, you will be given a hospital gown.
- You will be given a lead shield or apron to wear over your pelvic area. This protects the area from unnecessary radiation.
- You will stand, sit, or lie down on an x-ray table. You may be asked to change positions during the test.
- You will swallow a drink that contains barium. The drink is thick and chalky. It's usually flavored with chocolate or strawberry to make it easier to swallow.
- While you swallow, the radiologist will watch images of the barium traveling down your throat to your upper GI tract.
- You may be asked to hold your breath at certain times.
- The images will be recorded so they can be reviewed at a later time.
A normal result means that no abnormalities in size, shape, and movement were found in your throat, esophagus, stomach, or first part of the small intestine.
If your results were not normal, it may mean you have one of the following conditions:
- Hiatal hernia
- Ulcers
- Tumors
- Polyps
- Diverticula, a condition in which small sacs form in the inner wall of the intestine
- Esophageal stricture, a narrowing of the esophagus that can make it hard to swallow
If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.
1. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/upper-gi-series [accessed on Sep 19, 2019]
2. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003816.htm [accessed on Sep 19, 2019]
3. https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=uppergi [accessed on Sep 19, 2019]
4. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/upper-gastrointestinal-series [accessed on Sep 19, 2019]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (16)

Upper gastrointestinal series

Barium follow though showing the small bowel.

Image by Glitzy queen00 at en.wikipedia

Esophageal varices

Dilated and snake like varicose veins in esophagus of a patient with PHT. Upper gastrointestinal series.

Image by Nevit Dilmen (talk)

Esophageal varices

Dilated and snake like varicose veins in esophagus of a patient with PHT. Upper gastrointestinal series.

Image by Nevit Dilmen (talk)

Diffuse esophageal spasm

Upper gastrointestinal series. Corkscrew appearance of the esophagus due to Diffuse esophageal spasm. (DES) is a condition in which uncoordinated contractions of the esophagus occur.

Image by Nevit Dilmen (talk)

Zenker's diverticulum

Anatomy of Zenker's diverticulum

Image by Bernd Bragelmann Braegel. Mit freundlicher Genehmigung von Dr. Martin Steinhoff.

Zenker's diverticulum

Lateral X-ray of a Zenker's diverticula

Image by James Heilman, MD

Zenker's diverticulum

Xray showing a Zenker's diverticula (AP)

Image by James Heilman, MD

Upper GI Endoscopy Procedure in the ED

Video by Larry Mellick/YouTube

Preparing for an Upper GI Endoscopy - from the American Gastroenterological Association

Video by AmerGastroAssn/YouTube

Upper GI Bleed Causes- Overview

Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

Barium Swallow- Esophageal Pathologies!

Video by How To Gastro/YouTube

Barium Upper GI Test | What To Expect!

Video by Amy/YouTube

Normal barium swallow fluoroscopic image, showing the ingested barium sulfate being induced down the oesophagus by peristalsis.

Normal barium swallow fluoroscopic image, showing the ingested barium sulfate being induced down the oesophagus by peristalsis.

Image by Bernd Brägelmann Braegel.

UpperGIEsophagealCAMark

Esophageal cancer as shown by a filling defect during an upper GI series

Image by James Heilman, MD

Upper gastrointestinal series

X-ray of the stomach with both positive (bariumsulphate) and negative (CO2)contrastmedia.

Image by Lucien Monfils

UGIs erosion

Multiple erosions in the antrum, shown in the upper GI series

Image by Med_Chaos

Upper gastrointestinal series

Glitzy queen00 at en.wikipedia

Esophageal varices

Nevit Dilmen (talk)

Esophageal varices

Nevit Dilmen (talk)

Diffuse esophageal spasm

Nevit Dilmen (talk)

Zenker's diverticulum

Bernd Bragelmann Braegel. Mit freundlicher Genehmigung von Dr. Martin Steinhoff.

Zenker's diverticulum

James Heilman, MD

Zenker's diverticulum

James Heilman, MD

5:02

Upper GI Endoscopy Procedure in the ED

Larry Mellick/YouTube

7:25

Preparing for an Upper GI Endoscopy - from the American Gastroenterological Association

AmerGastroAssn/YouTube

9:42

Upper GI Bleed Causes- Overview

Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

12:12

Barium Swallow- Esophageal Pathologies!

How To Gastro/YouTube

11:00

Barium Upper GI Test | What To Expect!

Amy/YouTube

Normal barium swallow fluoroscopic image, showing the ingested barium sulfate being induced down the oesophagus by peristalsis.

Bernd Brägelmann Braegel.

UpperGIEsophagealCAMark

James Heilman, MD

Upper gastrointestinal series

Lucien Monfils

UGIs erosion

Med_Chaos

Treatment

Prebiotics and Probiotics in an infants digestive system

Image by TheVisualMD

Prebiotics and Probiotics in an infants digestive system

Prebiotics and Probiotics in an infants digestive system

Image by TheVisualMD

How Do Doctors Treat IBS in Children?

Doctors may treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in children by recommending changes in what a child eats, mental health therapies, probiotics, and medicines. A child may have to try a few treatments to see what works best. Your child’s doctor can help find the right treatment plan.

If a child has pain in the abdomen and constipation, the doctor may recommend treatments for constipation first. If abdominal pain goes away when the constipation has been treated, the child may have a functional GI disorder called functional constipation instead of IBS.

Changes in what a child eats

Your child’s doctor or dietitian can help plan a well-balanced diet. Read more about eating, diet, and nutrition for IBS.

Mental health therapies

Mental health therapies may improve IBS symptoms, help children cope with symptoms, and prevent symptoms from interfering with school and other activities. Therapies doctors may recommend for children with IBS include

cognitive behavioral therapy, which focuses on helping change thought and behavior patterns
gut-directed hypnotherapy, in which a therapist uses hypnosis, a trance-like state in which the child is relaxed or focused

Mental health therapies may improve IBS symptomsand help children cope with symptoms.

Probiotics

Your child’s doctor may recommend probiotics to help treat IBS symptoms. Probiotics are live microorganisms, most often bacteria, that may be similar to microorganisms that are normally in the digestive tract. Researchers are still studying the use of probiotics to treat IBS.

To be safe, talk with your child’s doctor before using probiotics or any other complementary or alternative medicines or practices. If your child’s doctor recommends probiotics, talk with the doctor about how much probiotics your child should take and for how long.

Medicines

In some cases, doctors may recommend medicines to help relieve your child’s IBS symptoms. Don’t give your child medicines to treat IBS unless told to do so by your child’s doctor. The type of medicine the doctor recommends will depend on your child’s symptoms. Recommended medicines might include

antidepressants
antispasmodics
coated peppermint oil capsules
fiber supplements

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (5)

Managing and Treating IBS-C

Video by You and Constipation/YouTube

Treating IBS

Video by Lee Health/YouTube

IBS symptoms, the low FODMAP diet and the Monash app that can help

Video by Central Clinical School, Monash University/YouTube

Can probiotics help my IBS-C? How should I take them?

Video by You and Constipation/YouTube

Cognitive behavioural therapy to treat IBS

Video by Gut/YouTube

6:06

Managing and Treating IBS-C

You and Constipation/YouTube

1:36

Treating IBS

Lee Health/YouTube

3:10

IBS symptoms, the low FODMAP diet and the Monash app that can help

Central Clinical School, Monash University/YouTube

5:06

Can probiotics help my IBS-C? How should I take them?

You and Constipation/YouTube

4:46

Cognitive behavioural therapy to treat IBS

Gut/YouTube

Diet & Nutrition

Children Eating

Image by Composite Photographers

Children Eating

Children Eating

Image by Composite Photographers

Can Changes in What a Child Eats Help Treat IBS Symptoms?

In some cases, doctors may recommend changes in what a child eats to help treat IBS symptoms. Talk with your child’s doctor about your child’s diet and whether certain foods appear to be related to IBS symptoms. The doctor may refer your child to a dietitian.

Research suggests that some children with IBS may benefit from reducing the amount of FODMAPs—carbohydrates that are hard to digest—in their diet. For some children with IBS, doctors or dietitians may recommend a low FODMAP diet. With the guidance of a doctor or dietitian, the child would eat less of certain foods that contain FODMAPs for a short time and then gradually add those foods back into his or her diet.

Talk with your child’s doctor or dietician before making any changes to your child’s diet to try to treat IBS symptoms. Proper nutrition is important for growth and development. Trained professionals can help you and your child plan a well-balanced diet and develop or maintain healthy eating habits.

Talk with your child’s doctor or dietitian before making changes to your child’s diet to manage IBS symptoms.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (4)

Popular Kids Foods That Trigger IBS | How FODMAPs Cause Gas, Diarrhea, and More

Video by Feed to Succeed/YouTube

How to Plan Low FODMAPs Meals | Best Diet for Kids and Families with IBS

Video by Feed to Succeed/YouTube

Mount Sinai Spotlight: IBS and FODMAP Diet

Video by Mount Sinai Health System/YouTube

IBS Diet: Get Control of Your Gut!

Video by The Doctors/YouTube

7:13

Popular Kids Foods That Trigger IBS | How FODMAPs Cause Gas, Diarrhea, and More

Feed to Succeed/YouTube

6:23

How to Plan Low FODMAPs Meals | Best Diet for Kids and Families with IBS

Feed to Succeed/YouTube

1:55

Mount Sinai Spotlight: IBS and FODMAP Diet

Mount Sinai Health System/YouTube

5:08

IBS Diet: Get Control of Your Gut!

The Doctors/YouTube

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a group of symptoms that occur together, including repeated pain in the abdomen and changes in bowel movements, which may be diarrhea, constipation, or both. IBS occurs in people of all ages, including children. Read about IBS in children.

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