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Children and elderly people are generally very sensitive to seasonal change and prone to falling sick owing to digestive issues.
Digestive problems are very common in young children; With around 1 in 3 children in the urban population, experiencing some type of stomach problem.
Fortunately, most of these cases are minor and can be resolved easily. Easy resolve does not mean you ignore your child’s symptoms, if minor issues are recurrent, they may be early signs of an underlying condition needing medical attention. In case of any treatment, visit the best gastroenterology hospital in Kharadi.
Synopsis
Common symptoms of Digestive Issues seen in young children
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Stomach pain
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Constipation
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Heartburn
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Gas
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Bloating
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Blood in the stool
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Weight loss
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Weight gain
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Lack of appetite
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Restlessness
Some common causes of Stomach Issues in Kids
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Diet
Eating too much processed food, sugary drinks, and not enough fibre can lead to constipation, diarrhoea, and other problems.
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Food allergies and intolerances
Some children may be allergic to certain kinds of foods; such as milk, eggs, or peanuts. Others might have undiagnosed intolerances to gluten or lactose, which can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhoea.
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Infections
Viruses, bacteria, and parasites can cause stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
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GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition where stomach acid flows back up into the oesophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation, and other symptoms.
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IBD and IBS
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are chronic inflammatory conditions of the digestive system. IBD causes inflammation and damage to the digestive tract, while IBS causes symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhoea without causing inflammation.
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Congenital Conditions
Some children may be born with congenital conditions that affect the digestive system, such as Hirschsprung's disease or Pyloric Stenosis.
Treatment for Digestive Issues in Kids
The digestive problems treatment for a child will depend on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:
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Dietary Changes
This may involve limiting processed foods and avoiding trigger foods.
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Diet Improvement
Adding more fruits and vegetables to the child’s diet to promote healthy motion and nutrient absorption.
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Medications
Over-the-counter or prescription medications may be necessary to treat symptoms like pain, diarrhoea, or constipation.
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Pre and Probiotics
Prebiotics and Probiotics are nutraceutical supplements that may contain live bacteria that help promote nutrient absorption and digestion.
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Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be feasible to correct a congenital condition or treat serious infections of the digestive system.
When should I consider visiting a doctor?
If your child experiences any of the following symptoms recurrently, it is important to see a doctor right away and get a proper examination done.
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Persistent or severe abdominal pain.
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Fever
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Vomiting that does not stop
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Blood in the stool
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Weight loss
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Lack of appetite
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Difficulty swallowing
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Dehydration
Consulting a specialized doctor can help diagnose serious medical conditions disguised as recurrent minor issues. Manipal Hospitals Kharadi has some of the best paediatricians and gastro experts to give you accurate diagnosis and medical care for your little ones.
It is important to get the best stomach care for your little ones, it is also important to follow healthy habits to prevent common issues. Manipal Hospitals Kharadi has certified paediatricians and dieticians to guide you towards proper nutrition care for your young ones.
Tips for Preventing Digestive Issues in Kids
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Encourage a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
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Make sure your child gets enough sleep and exercise.
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Manage stress levels.
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Teach your child about good hygiene practices, such as washing their hands frequently.
Following the above health tips can help prevent minor issues. Going for regular checkups should be adopted to ensure you get the best care at the earliest. Manipal Hospitals have the best gastroenterologists in Pune to cater to all your health care needs.
FAQ's
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Spicy foods: While spices are a staple in Indian cuisine, they can irritate the digestive system in young children.
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Fried foods: Samosas, pakoras, and other fried snacks are popular, but they can be high in fat and difficult to digest, especially for children with sensitive stomachs.
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Pulses and legumes: While dals and beans are excellent sources of protein and fibre, they can cause gas and bloating in some children, especially if not cooked properly.
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For diarrhoea: Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is crucial to prevent dehydration. Yogurt with live cultures (probiotics) can also help restore gut flora.
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For constipation: Increasing fibre intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help. Plenty of water is also important.
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For acid reflux: Smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding triggers like spicy foods, and elevating the head while sleeping can help.
Consult our expert gastroenterologist in Kharadi, Pune, if the problem persists for thorough diagnosis and timely treatment.
Seek medical attention if:
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Diarrhea lasts for more than 3 days or is accompanied by fever, vomiting, or bloody stools.
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Severe abdominal pain occurs.
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There is significant weight loss or failure to thrive.
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Blood is present in vomit or stool.
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Difficulty swallowing persists.
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Constipation is chronic and not relieved by home remedies.
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Practice good hygiene, including handwashing and properly cleaning fruits and vegetables.
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Ensure safe drinking water and sanitation.
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Encourage a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and fried foods.
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Introduce new foods gradually and monitor for any reactions.
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Manage stress and anxiety, which can worsen digestive issues.
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