Symptom 3: Diarrhea
No parent likes to see their child make frequent, urgent dashes to the bathroom. Diarrhea, characterized by loose and watery stools, can be particularly distressing for children. With IBS, this isn’t just a one-off episode caused by a bad meal or a fleeting stomach bug. The frequency and urgency set IBS-related diarrhea apart.
The reasons behind this symptom are multifaceted. Altered bowel movements, increased gut sensitivity, and an imbalance in the intestinal flora can all play their part. Additionally, the diarrhea episodes might be accompanied by cramps, adding to the discomfort. It’s essential to consider the emotional toll this takes on the child. The fear of an unexpected episode, especially outside the home, can induce anxiety.
While occasional diarrhea might not be worrisome, chronic episodes can lead to complications. There’s the risk of dehydration, and if the child begins to associate food with these episodes, they might become apprehensive about eating. This can, in turn, lead to nutritional deficiencies.(3)
