How to prepare for a video visit about Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Diarrhea‑predominant) - Mild

Audience: pediatric

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) with diarrhea-predominant symptoms is a common condition in children that can cause tummy pain and frequent loose stools. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help understand symptoms and discuss ways to feel better. Preparing for your child's telemedicine appointment can make the visit easier and more helpful. This includes noting symptoms, any medicines or foods that seem to affect symptoms, and questions you want to ask. During the visit, the provider will ask about your child's health history and symptoms and may suggest lifestyle changes or treatments. Remember, if your child has severe pain, blood in stool, or other urgent symptoms, seek in-person care promptly. Telemedicine is a useful tool for mild IBS but cannot replace emergency care or detailed physical exams.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain that limits daily activities — seek urgent in-person care.
• Blood or black tarry stools — get immediate medical evaluation.
• Unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, or high fever — go to emergency care promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing mild to moderate IBS-D symptoms and history.
• Providing education about symptom management and lifestyle changes.
• Reviewing current medications and supplements.
• Answering questions about IBS-D and related concerns.
• Planning follow-up care or referrals if needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical abdominal examinations.
• Diagnosing emergency conditions or complications.
• Providing urgent care for severe symptoms or red flags.
• Ordering immediate laboratory or imaging tests requiring in-person visits.
• Administering treatments that require direct supervision.

What is Diarrhea-Predominant IBS in Children?

Diarrhea-predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS-D) is a condition where children often have tummy pain along with frequent loose or watery stools. It is a type of IBS that affects how the bowel works but does not cause permanent damage. Symptoms may come and go and can be triggered by stress, certain foods, or infections.

How to Get Ready for the Video Visit

Before the appointment, write down your child's symptoms, including when they started and how often they happen. Note any foods or activities that seem to make symptoms better or worse. List all medicines, vitamins, or supplements your child is taking. Prepare questions you want to ask the healthcare provider. Make sure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to the internet.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about your child's tummy pain, bowel habits, diet, and overall health. They may ask about family history of digestive problems. The provider will discuss possible causes and suggest ways to manage symptoms, such as diet changes, stress management, or medicines. They may also recommend follow-up visits or tests if needed.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has severe belly pain, blood in their stool, weight loss, fever, or vomiting that does not stop, they need to see a healthcare provider in person right away. These signs may mean a more serious problem that needs urgent care.

Tips for Managing Mild IBS-D at Home

Encourage your child to eat regular meals and avoid foods that trigger symptoms. Drinking plenty of fluids is important. Help your child manage stress with relaxation techniques or activities they enjoy. Follow any treatment plans your healthcare provider suggests and keep track of symptoms to share at follow-up visits.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms, including frequency and triggers.
• List all medications, vitamins, and supplements your child is taking.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Ensure your device is charged and has a stable internet connection.
• Find a quiet, private space for the video visit.
• Have a notepad and pen ready to take notes during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on diet and lifestyle changes.
• Administer any recommended medications as directed.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if advised.
• Seek in-person care if red flag symptoms develop.
• Keep a symptom diary to discuss in future visits.

FAQs

What causes diarrhea-predominant IBS in children?

IBS-D can be caused by a combination of factors including changes in how the gut moves, sensitivity to pain, stress, and sometimes infections. It is not caused by an infection or serious disease, but the exact cause is often unknown.

Can diet changes help my child's symptoms?

Yes, certain foods may trigger symptoms. Keeping a food diary can help identify these. Common triggers include fatty foods, caffeine, dairy, and some artificial sweeteners. A healthcare provider or dietitian can guide safe dietary changes.

Is IBS dangerous for my child?

IBS is usually not dangerous and does not cause permanent damage. However, it can affect quality of life. Managing symptoms with lifestyle changes and medical advice can help your child feel better.

When should I call the doctor about my child's IBS symptoms?

Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen, do not improve with treatment, or if your child develops red flag signs like severe pain, blood in stool, weight loss, or fever.

Can stress make IBS worse?

Yes, stress and anxiety can often make IBS symptoms worse. Helping your child manage stress through relaxation, exercise, or counseling can be beneficial.

Sources

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children and Adolescents: Diagnosis and Management — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If your child has urgent or severe symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.