Why Evaluate Children’s Gut Health?
Children can present with distinct GI problems affecting growth and development.
Common Causes
- Infections: rotavirus, norovirus, bacterial enteritis
- Inflammatory: pediatric IBD (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis)
- Allergies: cow’s milk protein intolerance, eosinophilic esophagitis
- Functional: infantile colic, functional constipation, IBS
- Malabsorption: celiac disease, lactase deficiency
- Anatomic: pyloric stenosis, malrotation
How Should I Prepare?
- Symptom diary: stool patterns, pain episodes.
- Bring growth charts and previous labs.
What Happens During Evaluation & Treatment?
- Initial labs: CBC, stool studies, celiac serology.
- Endoscopy/biopsy if indicated.
- Tailored therapy: rehydration, dietary modification, allergy elimination, medications.
What Can I Expect Afterwards?
- Rapid improvement with correct diagnosis and treatment.
- Growth monitoring critical.
Risks & Possible Complications
- Dehydration from diarrhea
- Nutritional deficiencies impacting growth
Follow-Up
- Regular pediatric GI clinic visits.
Monitor growth parameters and lab markers.
