Question 1

When should I take my child to a paediatric gastroenterologist?

Accepted Answer

If symptoms such as reflux, poor weight gain, persistent constipation or diarrhoea, blood in stools, or recurrent abdominal pain continue despite basic care.

Question 2

Is constipation in children common?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It is common and often improves with a structured plan that includes diet, fluids and medicines when needed.

Question 3

How is coeliac disease diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

It is diagnosed through blood tests and, when needed, endoscopy with biopsy. Your doctor will guide the right sequence.

Question 4

Will my child need endoscopy?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Endoscopy is advised when it is needed to confirm diagnosis, evaluate bleeding, or assess persistent symptoms.

Question 5

What is IBD in children?

Accepted Answer

IBD is inflammation in the bowel that can cause pain, diarrhoea and blood in stools. It needs long-term treatment and monitoring.

Question 6

How do you manage poor weight gain?

Accepted Answer

Care includes growth assessment, nutrition planning, and targeted tests to identify causes such as malabsorption or chronic inflammation.

Question 7

What reports should we carry?

Accepted Answer

Bring growth charts, prior blood tests, stool tests, ultrasound or scan reports and a list of medicines.

Question 8

Can diet alone treat digestive problems?

Accepted Answer

Diet helps many conditions, but some illnesses need medicines. The plan is tailored to diagnosis and symptom severity.

Paediatric Gastroenterology Programme