What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome often referred to as IBS, is an unpredictable condition that occurs in the colon or large intestine. While the exact cause of IBS is unknown, the condition affects between 25 million and 45 million people in the United States, according to aboutIBS.org.

Affecting most people under the age of 50, symptoms of IBS can range from mild to severe. IBS affects everyone differently, interrupting daily life with common symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, diarrhea and constipation.

Nonpharmacologic treatment options range from lifestyle changes to cognitive behavioral therapy.

Doctors are limited in medicine they can prescribe children when treating IBS because of risk factors and limited studies in the pediatric population. Most medications used in IBS are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration for pediatric population. There is a new FDA approved technological treatment option called IB-Stim for children, designed to help manage abdominal pain caused by IBS.

IB-Stim Explained

IB-Stim is a nonsurgical device and treatment option prescribed by a doctor for patients ages 11 to 18. The device is placed behind the ear and sends gentle electrical impulses to the area of the brain that is associated with processing and reducing abdominal pain caused by IBS.

Like traditional treatment options, IB-Stim may not work for everyone as each condition is unique. Those able to use IB-stim successfully may begin to see results as early as the first week of use. The device is designed to be used 120 hours or five days at a time over three consecutive weeks. IB-Stim is usually worn for the length of recommended time unless directed otherwise by a provider.

Patients can wash their hair while wearing the device covered by a washcloth. Even though IB-Stim is water resistant, patients should not swim or get into a hot tub while wearing the device since it isn’t fully waterproof. If the device is soaked in water, it will simply stop working or electrical sensations can increase. It is not dangerous. It is best to dry the device and contact your doctor.

Serious side effects have not been reported while using IB-Stim. Patients may experience pain at the site of implantation or a small rash. The likelihood of experiencing these side effects is rare, with a less than 1% chance. Patients with hemophilia, cardiac pacemakers and psoriasis vulgaris should not use IB-Stim.

Patients who have used IB-Stim said the device helped reduce pain, improve their lifestyle and ease the anxiety of social situations.

If your child is experiencing IBS symptoms or diagnosed with IBS, contact your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment options.