How can you help your child cope with inflammatory bowel disease? Because of the unpredictable nature of the disease, it's easy to feel helpless. Your child will likely be fatigued, irritable, and anxious - the best way to help your child is to seek treatment as soon as symptoms appear to help relieve as much discomfort as possible.
Although it can be difficult to get any child to eat properly, a balanced diet with adequate calories becomes even more important for kids with inflammatory bowel disease. Diarrhea, loss of nutrients, and the side effects of drug treatment may all lead to malnutrition.
Encourage your child to eat small meals throughout the day to help lessen any symptoms. Pack nutritious snacks and lunches so your child won't be tempted to indulge in junk food that's high in fat and sodium, which can intensify the symptoms of the disease. Eventually, your child may be able to determine which foods provoke symptoms and learn to avoid those foods.
If your child begins to lose weight quickly, has repeated bouts of diarrhea, or complains of abdominal cramping, inflammatory bowel disease may be the cause. Call your child's doctor if you notice any of these symptoms to ensure that your child gets proper evaluation and treatment.
Inflammatory bowel disease is a serious condition, but with proper treatment and medical care, your child can enjoy a productive, normal life.
