School Absences Linked to Gut-Brain Disorders in Children, UVA Health Study Finds
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Children who frequently miss school due to abdominal issues may be suffering from disorders of the gut-brain axis, such as irritable bowel syndrome, rather than diseases detectable through standard medical tests. New research from UVA Health Children’s, spearheaded by Stephen M. Borowitz, MD, and fourth-year medical student Seth M. Tersteeg, reveals a notable correlation. The study, conducted at UVA Health Children’s Pediatric Gastroenterology Clinic, suggests that assessing school absenteeism could improve care for children with common gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and potentially reduce unneeded testing.
The UVA Health Children’s study, published in the journal *Frontiers in Pediatrics*, underscores a meaningful connection between school absenteeism and functional gastrointestinal disorders in children. Stephen M.Borowitz, MD, and Seth M.Tersteeg analyzed data from parents who brought their children to the UVA health Children’s Pediatric Gastroenterology Clinic, focusing on reported school absences. their findings propose a novel approach to diagnosing and managing these prevalent childhood ailments.
The Link Between Absenteeism and Functional GI Disorders
The research team, consisting of Stephen M. Borowitz, MD, and Seth M. Tersteeg, discovered that children missing more than three days of school in the preceding month were nearly five times more likely to have functional gastrointestinal disorders. These disorders encompass a range of conditions, from irritable bowel syndrome to heightened digestive sensitivity. Crucially, these conditions are distinct from illnesses with specific, identifiable causes that can be pinpointed through laboratory tests.
The study further revealed that children who were absent from school for the entire month were almost eight times more likely to be diagnosed with a functional GI disorder. This striking correlation underscores the potential for school absenteeism to serve as an indicator of underlying gut-brain axis issues.
“we suspect that one of the biggest reasons children with functional gastrointestinal disorders are more likely to miss lots of school is as of what is frequently enough a long delay in making a definitive diagnosis,”
stephen M. Borowitz, MD, pediatric gastroenterologist with UVA Health Children’s Department of Pediatrics
borowitz further explained that the delay in diagnosis can exacerbate the problem. “The longer the child goes without an explanation of why they are having symptoms and what can be done to lessen those symptoms, the more anxious, fearful and frustrated the child and the family become. In general, the quicker we can identify what is going on and begin treatment, the better the outcome.”
Understanding Gastrointestinal Problems in Children
Digestive issues are a common complaint among school-aged children. While some cases stem from short-term illnesses like stomach viruses, the majority of persistent issues have other underlying causes. Chronic abdominal pain and constipation account for a significant portion of pediatric visits, with up to 38% attributed to these complaints. Notably, 95% of these chronic cases are not the result of gastrointestinal diseases but are rather due to functional GI disorders.
The researchers, Borowitz and Tersteeg, emphasized that these ambiguous diagnoses can cause worry for both parents and children, contributing to increased school absenteeism. Delays in obtaining a specific diagnosis can also hinder the effectiveness of treatment for these conditions, as highlighted in their paper published in *Frontiers in Pediatrics*.
Over the years, it seemed like the majority of children we were seeing in our practice with chronic gastrointestinal complaints and were missing lots of school were suffering from functional gastrointestinal disorders – disorders of the gut-brain axis – rather than gastrointestinal diseases,
Tersteeg explained the impetus for the study: “so we performed this study to see if this impression was correct.”
Methodology and Findings
To investigate the connection between school absences and GI issues,the researchers gathered data from parents of children aged 5 to 19 with chronic GI complaints who visited UVA’s Pediatric Gastroenterology Clinic between September 2016 and June 2017. the study encompassed 674 visits involving school-age children.
The findings revealed that 82% of children who had missed more than three days of school in the previous month were subsequently diagnosed with a functional GI disorder. Among the 408 children diagnosed with functional disorders, the most prevalent conditions were functional constipation (36%), functional abdominal pain (35%), and irritable bowel syndrome (31%). A significant number of children, over 220, had more than one disorder, but their absenteeism rates were not higher than those with a single disorder.
Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment
The researchers suggest that inquiring about school absences could be a valuable tool for doctors in identifying children who might potentially be suffering from functional GI disorders. This approach could lead to earlier diagnoses and more prompt initiation of treatment, ultimately improving outcomes for affected children.
The UVA Health Children’s study provides valuable insights into the relationship between school absenteeism and functional gastrointestinal disorders. By considering school attendance patterns, healthcare providers may be able to expedite the diagnostic process and provide more effective care for children struggling with these common and often debilitating conditions.
Unlocking the Mystery: Gut-Brain Connection and ChildrenS School Absences
Did you know that frequent school absences in children could be a meaningful indicator of underlying gut-brain disorders? This isn’t just about tummy aches; it’s about a complex interplay between the digestive system and the brain.
World-Today-News.com Senior Editor (STE): Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading pediatric gastroenterologist, welcome to World-Today-News.com. Recent research highlights a strong correlation between children missing school and functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). Can you elaborate on this connection for our readers?
Dr. Sharma: Thank you for having me.The research beautifully illustrates a point we’ve suspected for some time: school absenteeism can be a powerful, often overlooked, clue in diagnosing children with FGIDs. these disorders, which effect the gut-brain axis – the intricate communication network between the digestive system and the central nervous system – frequently enough manifest as chronic abdominal pain, constipation, or othre digestive issues. For many children, these symptoms are so disruptive that consistent school attendance becomes impossible. What’s crucial to understand is that these aren’t simple “stomach bugs”—these are complex conditions that require specialized medical attention.
STE: The study mentions a significant increase in the likelihood of FGIDs among children missing more than three school days. Could you explain the underlying mechanisms driving this correlation?
Dr. Sharma: Absolutely. Children with FGIDs often experience debilitating symptoms. The chronic nature of these disorders can lead to fear and anxiety around exacerbating symptoms, creating a vicious cycle. This anxiety can further affect the gut, creating a heightened sensitivity and more frequent GI distress. Consequently, missing school becomes a common coping mechanism, as children avoid stressful environments that might trigger their symptoms. The longer a child suffers without a proper diagnosis and effective management strategy, the more likely they are to experience significant school absences.
STE: What are some of the most common FGIDs affecting school-aged children, and how can parents and educators recognize the signs?
Dr. Sharma: Among the most prevalent FGIDs are:
Functional constipation: Characterized by infrequent and difficult bowel movements.
Functional abdominal pain: Persistent or recurrent abdominal pain without identifiable organic cause.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A chronic condition marked by abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits.
parents and educators should be aware of persistent abdominal complaints, changes in bowel habits, frequent bathroom trips during school, and noticeable changes in a child’s behavior, such as increased anxiety or avoidance of social situations. Early intervention is crucial, as early diagnosis and management can substantially improve the child’s overall quality of life.
STE: the study proposes that inquiring about school absences could be a valuable screening tool for doctors. How could this simple question improve the diagnostic process and ultimately the child’s well-being?
Dr. Sharma: Exactly.By asking about school attendance, physicians can initiate a conversation about digestive concerns, potentially uncovering underlying FGIDs that might or else go undiagnosed. this proactive approach facilitates early intervention and allows for a quicker adoption of appropriate management strategies.This is vital,as the earlier treatment begins,the less likely the child is to develop prolonged,serious issues. This approach can significantly reduce the emotional toll on children and their families.
STE: What are some effective treatment options for children with FGIDs?
Dr. Sharma: treatment plans are often individualized and may include dietary changes, stress management techniques (like mindfulness or yoga), regular physical activity, and in some cases, medication. Specific approaches change with each child, but the overall goal involves:
Symptom management: Strategies to alleviate or reduce the severity of symptoms.
Lifestyle modifications: Dietary changes, increased physical activity, etc.
Psychotherapy: To help develop coping mechanisms and manage anxiety.
In essence, a holistic approach is usually most effective in managing FGIDs.
STE: What advice would you give to parents concerned about their child’s frequent school absences due to abdominal issues?
Dr. Sharma: If your child is missing school regularly due to persistent stomach aches or bowel problems, it is essential to:
- Schedule an appointment with their pediatrician or a pediatric gastroenterologist.
- Keep a detailed record of your child’s symptoms, including frequency, duration, and severity.
- Discuss your concerns openly with your child’s doctor.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Effective management of these conditions is possible, and getting early intervention can drastically improve your child’s overall well-being and school experience.
STE: Dr. Sharma, thank you for sharing your invaluable expertise with our readers. This has been incredibly insightful.
Dr. Sharma: My pleasure. Early identification and intervention are keys to successful treatment for children with FGIDs. This underscores the importance of open communication between parents, educators, and healthcare professionals. Please,share your experiences and questions in the comments section below— your insights can greatly help others.