Paediatric Digestive Health: 7 Early Signs Parents Shouldn’t Ignore

The digestive health is the crucial aspect of the development of a child and his/her well-being. A healthy digestive system will ensure children can flourish at school, play, and life in general because of being able to absorb necessary nutrients to maintain their energy levels. Nevertheless, most of the parents tend to ignore the initial signs of a digestive problem because they think that this kind of symptom such as stomachache or the bowel movements is a normal part of childhood.

There is even an assertion by specialists such as Dr Shaun Segal, a highly regarded Paediatric Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at his practice in Kingswood, NSW, that such close attention to early warning signs can contribute greatly to the long term health of such a child. The intervention is not only timely but prevents minor problems, which would lead to complex gastrointestinal (GI) disorders.

There are seven early indicators of paediatric digestive health issues that must not be overlooked by parents, as discussed in this blog.

Persistent Abdominal Pain

In children, tummy aches are a common occurrence that is usually caused due to overeating, gas or small infections. Nevertheless, when the pain in the abdomen is recurrent or persistent it should raise a red flag. When your child is often complaining of stomach pain and it is affecting school or sleep, it can be the sign of such conditions as:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Constipation-related issues
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

To identify the underlying cause and prescribe specific treatment, the assistance of a paediatric gastroenterologist is possible.

Lack of Explanation of Loss of Weight or Poor Growth.

Children are supposed to develop on a regular basis. Unexpected weight loss or poor appetite in a child or even lack of thriving can be an indication of digestive system issues such as malabsorption or liver disease.

According to Dr Shaun Segal, growth delays may be caused by digestive illnesses like coeliac disease or chronic liver diseases which may interfere with nutrient absorption. The progress of a child must be monitored by parents frequently and addressed by an expert in case of anabolic retardation.

Chronic Diarrhoea/Constipation.

Although transient bowel habit alteration is normal, persistent diarrhoea or constipation is not to be overlooked.

• Chronic diarrhoea can be a symptom of food intolerance, infection or inflammatory bowel disease.
• When the constipation is persistent, then it may be attributed to dietary problems or other conditions that may be affecting the colon.

Should the bowel practices of your child continue to be abnormal, after two weeks, then a medical evaluation is necessary.

Blood in Stool

It is frightening to come across blood in the stool of a child, and with reason. Although small causes such as fissures of the anus (small tears) may be the cause, blood in the stool may be a sign of more serious problems such as:

• Ulcerative colitis
• Crohn’s disease
• Severe infections

Such doctors as paediatric gastroenterologists as Dr Shaun Segal underscore that parents can never ignore this symptom. Timely assessment would help to avoid complications and provide proper treatment.

Constant Nausea or Vomiting.

Children do not fail to normalcy to sometimes vomit as a result of viral infections or food related problems. However, nausea or vomiting frequently is a possible indication of digestive issues. Possible causes include:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• Food allergies
• GI tract structural abnormalities.

In case of chronic vomiting which is accompanied by dehydration, abdominal pain or loss of weight then medical attention is very important.

Jaundice (Yellowing of the Skin or of the Eyes)

Jaundice is the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood that causes the skin or eyes to be yellowish colored. Jaundice in children may be associated with hepatitis, obstruction of the bile ducts or hereditary illnesses of the liver.

Dr Shaun Segal, a Paediatric Hepatologist, points out that liver problems need to be diagnosed and treated early. Parents which observe any jaundice warning should seek urgent specialist attention.

Extreme Feeding Dispoena.

Sometimes digestive issues are manifested in the form of problems with swallowing, unwillingness to eat, or post-meal discomfort. Such problems can be associated with such ailments as reflux, eosinophilic oesophagitis, food intolerances.

Constant feeding problems not only influence nutrition, but also the emotional state of a child. Juvenile feeding problems can be tackled to ensure that children form a healthy relationship with food.

When do Parents need to see a Paediatric Gastroenterologist?

When parents should consult a specialist when:

• The symptoms are chronic or deteriorating.
• There is poor growth and gain in weight.
• School performance or day activities are being affected by digestive problems.

Through the help of expert practitioners, such as Dr Shaun Segal, the family can receive correct diagnosis, innovative care and a caring attitude based on the specific needs of children.

Supplies of Your Child: Digestive Health.

Although there are some digestive issues that may be addressed by the doctor, parents can also advance the health of their digestive system by:

• Nutritious food: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and proper fluid intake.
• Frequent action: Exercise assists in the regulation of digestion.
• Symptom observation: Recording a diary of bowel movements, pain and food consumed.
• Promoting open communication: Children are supposed to express themselves about the way they feel physically.

Final Thoughts

The issue of paediatric digestive health is usually not taken seriously, but it directly influences the growth of the child, energy and happiness in general. It is important to be aware of the first signs of symptoms, like constant abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or jaundice, which can save lives.

Paediatric gastroenterologists such as Dr Shaun Segal urge parents to always consult a paediatric gastroenterologist in time in order to make sure that their children get the attention they deserve. Through this proactivity, parents are able to make their children live healthier and brighter lives.