Most kids will have a digestive problem at some point during childhood. Digestive problems in a 2-year-old often cause only minor discomfort and aren't usually cause for alarm. However, some digestive system problems may require a doctor's care, explains Children's Hospital of Wisconsin.
Acid Reflux/GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux or acid reflux is a common digestive problem in babies. It occurs when stomach contents travel back up into the esophagus. Acid reflux that persists past the first year of life may signal a more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease. Symptoms of reflux disease in a 2-year-old may include heartburn, frequent regurgitation or food moving from the stomach up to the mouth, coughing, wheezing, nausea and irritability.
Your doctor may suggest over-the-counter products that can ease acid production. Prescription heartburn remedies including H-2 blockers, like cimetidine, or proton pump inhibitors, like omeprazole, may also be prescribed in dosages suitable for a child.
Lactose Problems
Two-year-olds who are lactose intolerant may have gas, bloating, cramps and other digestive problems about 30 minutes after consuming foods or beverages that contain lactose, reports Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. Lactose is a sugar contained in dairy products. Lack of an enyzme known as lactase causes lactose intolerance.
Digestive problems related to lactose intolerance in young children may be resolved by eliminating milk, ice cream, and soften cheeses like cottage cheese. Keep in mind that he recommended daily dietary allowance of calcium for a 2-year-old is 500 milligrams. Lactose-free milk retains all the other ingredients of regular milk, including calcium. Taking over-the-counter lactase before each meal can also help a toddler digest foods that contain lactose.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea can cause abdominal pain, cramps and bloating. Various conditions -- including bacterial infections like strep throat, viral infections such as the common cold and possibly allergies -- can cause diarrhea. Drinking plenty of water will help replace lost fluids and help prevent dehydration. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial condition is the source of diarrhea.
Approximately 6 to 8 percent of children younger than 5 have food allergy, according to the Mayo Clinic. Knowing what foods to avoid that may be causing diarrhea is perhaps the best course of action. Also read food labels carefully.
Lifestyle Factors
Eating too quickly and overeating can negatively effect digestion. Encourage your child to chew his food. A nutritious diet that typically includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean sources of meat can help prevent common digestive problems from occurring in the first place, explains KidsHealth.org, a website published by the Nemours Foundation.
References
- KidsHealth: Digestive System
- Childrens Hospital of Wisconsin: Common Children's Digestive Problems
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC): Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux "..."
- MayoClinic.com: Infant Acid Reflux
- BabyCenter: Gas Pain
- HealthyChildren: Lactose Intolerance in Children
- MayoClinic.com: Food Allergy
