Intestines

A capsule endoscopy is a procedure that looks inside the digestive tract. Capsule endoscopies help doctors diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Find out more about what a capsule endoscopy involves.

A colonoscopy (lower endoscopy) is a procedure that looks inside the lower part of the digestive tract (bowel). Colonoscopies help doctors diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Find out more about what a colonoscopy involves.

The aims of treatment for ulcerative colitis are to control inflammation, relieve symptoms, make sure your child is growing well and has the vitamins and minerals they need. Some tamariki (children) may need to see a dietitian as part of their treatment.

The aims of treatment for Crohn's disease are to control inflammation, relieve symptoms, make sure your child is growing well and has the vitamins and minerals they need. Some tamariki (children) may need to see a dietitian as part of their treatment.

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are inflammatory bowel diseases. In tamariki (children), they can cause tummy pain, diarrhoea, bleeding from their bottom, or weight loss. If your child has these symptoms, take your child to a health professional.

Coeliac disease is common and can run in a whānau (family). If your child has coeliac disease, they may have some symptoms or none at all. They'll need to follow a strict gluten-free diet.

The aim is for your child to do 1 soft formed poo every day. You can try some simple measures first for your child's constipation. If those don't work, your child will need help from laxatives.

Intussusception is a rare condition where one part of the bowel slides inside the next (like a telescope) and causes a blockage.

Information for parents and carers about the use of sodium picosulfate for constipation in children.

Information about the use of macrogol for constipation in children.

Information for parents and carers about the use of lactulose for constipation in children.

Information for parents and carers about the use of senna for constipation in children.

Constipation is when your child has hard poo and doesn't poo for 3 or more days. It's a common problem in childhood.

Soiling is when your child does poo in their pants after the age when you would expect them to be toilet-trained. Soiling is usually caused by long-lasting constipation and an overloaded bowel.

Laxatives are medicines that help the body to get rid of poo. They are an essential part of the treatment of long-lasting constipation and soiling. 

Appendicitis can be serious. See a health professional urgently if you think your child has symptoms of appendicitis.