If your infant is experiencing diarrhea or constipation, it may be a sign of irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease. These conditions are more common in children, but infants may also experience both conditions. Although these conditions are not life threatening, they may cause discomfort and irritability in your infant until the symptoms disappear.
Types
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common intestinal disorder that may cause diarrhea, constipation, bloating, gas and cramps. This disorder is also called "nervous stomach" or a "spastic colon." IBS does not cause any serious health problems, but may be uncomfortable for your infant until the condition disappears. Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, includes a chronic disease that causes intestinal inflammation, called ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis is an inflammation of the large intestine or colon, resulting in ulcers in the rectal area. This may cause frequent diarrhea and may be extremely uncomfortable for your infant.
Causes
According to Kids Health, IBS may be genetic. Infants with IBS are more sensitive to pain and discomfort. Foods such as milk may trigger IBS. Stress may also cause IBS because the brain is linked to nerves in the colon. Infants may be stressed from moving, vacations or trauma. The brain effect how well the colon functions and may slow down the stomach or speed up the colon. According to Kids Health, IBD may be due the environment, genetics or diet.
Symptoms
IBS includes pain or discomfort that is relieved from a bowel movement and includes changes in the infant's stool. Some infants may be constipated and some may develop diarrhea. Symptoms of ulcerative colitis include mucus and blood in your infant's stool. This is due to damage in the colon lining. Some infants will have diarrhea and abdominal pain with this condition.
Treatment
IBS is treated by changes in your infant's eating, including making changes to what and how much your infant is eating. If IBS is due to stress, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes. Medications may be prescribed to treat the symptoms for your infant. Treatment for IBD includes anti-inflammatory drugs and immunosuppressive agents to prevent the immune system from causing further inflammation from attacking the body's own tissues.
Considerations
If your child is experiencing diarrhea or constipation, you should see your child's doctor. These conditions are easily treated. It is important to make sure your child drinks plenty of fluid and does not become dehydrated because that may lead to serious complications.
