IBS in children

Overview

Irritable bowel syndrome, called IBS for short, is a common long-term condition that affects the way the gut (the intestines) works. With IBS, a child may have belly pain, bloating, and changes in poo (diarrhoea or constipation) even though the gut looks healthy on tests.

Yes. IBS affects many children and teenagers, and it is one of the most common gut problems in childhood.

It can affect children of any age, but symptoms often start in the mid-teen years. Around teenage years, girls are a little more likely to have IBS than boys. It also tends to run in families.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Belly pain or cramping that often eases after going to the toilet
• Bloating and a swollen tummy
• Diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating between the two
• Feeling that poo is not fully passed
• Gas (wind) and a rumbly tummy

Symptoms in children

• Pain that comes and goes, often around the belly button
• Changes in how often a child poos — sometimes several times a day, other times days apart
• Poo that is hard and lumpy or soft and watery
• Mucus (a clear or whitish slime) in the poo
• Pain that gets better after a poo

Causes

Main causes

• The brain and the gut 'talk' to each other, and in IBS this connection is out of tune
• Foods and drinks can trigger symptoms, such as high-fat meals or drinks with caffeine
• Stress, anxiety, or excitement can affect gut movement
• A past gut infection (such as a stomach bug) can trigger long-lasting IBS symptoms

Risk factors

• A family history of IBS
• Mental health conditions like anxiety or feeling very stressed
• Regular use of certain medicines, such as antibiotics (talk to your doctor)
• Sensitivity to some foods or a poor diet with low fibre

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your child has severe tummy pain that doesn't settle
• If you see blood in the poo (unless a doctor confirms it's a harmless tear)
• If your child has a high fever with tummy pain
• If your child is losing weight without trying

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your child has tummy pain or changes in poo for more than a few weeks
• If symptoms are affecting school, sleep, or daily life
• If you're worried about your child's symptoms and want reassurance

Diagnosis

A doctor will listen to your child's symptoms, ask about poo patterns and diet, and do a gentle tummy exam. There is no single test for IBS — the diagnosis is based on typical symptoms and on making sure there isn't another reason for them.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check for anaemia, inflammation, or coeliac disease
• Stool (poo) tests to look for infection or inflammation
• Breath tests for lactose intolerance or other sugar malabsorption
• Sometimes ultrasound or other scans if the doctor wants a closer look

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor may ask your child to keep a poo and symptom diary for a couple of weeks. They may also use a set of agreed criteria (called the Rome criteria) to diagnose IBS. You might be referred to a children's gut specialist (paediatric gastroenterologist) for further advice.

Treatment

There is no cure for IBS, but most children can feel much better with a plan that includes eating habits, managing stress, and sometimes medicines to calm symptoms. Treatment is tailored to each child.

Self-care at home

• Keep a diary of what your child eats and when symptoms happen
• Have regular meals and avoid skipping breakfast
• Drink enough water during the day
• Limit fizzy drinks, caffeine, and very rich or fatty foods
• Encourage gentle physical activity like walking or cycling

Medical treatments

Doctors sometimes recommend medicines to help with constipation or diarrhoea, or to ease crampy pain. Examples include fibre supplements, stool softeners, antispasmodics, and medicines that affect how the gut moves. These are only used if needed and are always prescribed by a doctor who knows your child. Never give your child medicines without medical advice.

Living with this condition

Help your child learn their triggers and plan around school, trips, and sport. Having a plan when a flare-up happens — like knowing where toilets are — can reduce worry.

Lifestyle tips

• Set a regular sleep schedule
• Make time for relaxing activities like reading, drawing, or music
• Talk openly about feelings and stress
• Let your child go to school and activities, even if they feel a little anxious

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, and whole grains helps. Some children do well with a temporary low-FODMAP diet (a special eating plan that avoids certain sugars) — but this should only be done with a dietitian. Regular exercise helps the gut move and lowers stress.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with IBS can make a child feel anxious, embarrassed, or fed up. These feelings are normal and can make symptoms worse, so it's important to talk about them and ask for help.

Prevention

IBS can't always be prevented, but healthy habits like regular meals, staying hydrated, and managing stress may reduce flare-ups.

Complications

If left untreated

• Poor quality of life — missing school, sports, and social events
• Anxiety and low mood
• Difficulty sleeping or tiredness during the day

Long-term outlook

The good news is IBS is not dangerous and does not harm the gut. With the right help — diet, support, and sometimes treatment — most children and teenagers get on with their lives, and many find their symptoms improve or go away over time.

Find support

International organisations

• International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) ↗

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.