Digestive System Disorders
Cystic Fibrosis
What is it?
Cystic fibrosis (CF), although a rare disease, is the most serious of lung diseases in children. With this condition, there is a abnormality with the glands that discharge their secretions through the skin, internal hollow organs and mucous membranes.
Susceptibility:
This defect seems to be more common amongst those of central
European ancestry. Commonly present in 50 out of every 100 000
births
Related Symptoms:
In the case of the respiratory system being affected, the
child will suffer with chronic bouts of coughing and pneumonia,
due to the thick secretions filling the lungs. When the
digestive system is affected, the child may have difficulty in
passing her first bowel movements following the birth, which
will then cause intestinal obstruction. Pancreatic insufficiency
may also cause an inability to digest protein and fat, with the
stools being pale and foul-smelling. Weight gain is poor,
eventhough the child may have a healthy appetite.
Treatment:
Unfortunately there is no known cure, although early detection is vital in preventing mass development of the symptoms, where effective treatment will aid in a normal healthy life.
- Sweat glands: Salt supplements.
- Digestive: Limited fat intake, and fat-soluble vitamin supplements.
- Respiratory: Antibiotics to treat infection, increased fluid intake and oxygen therapy.
- Intestinal: Non-surgical treatment is usually effective in relieving a blockage.
Outlook:
The prognosis is fairly good, provided you seek early treatment and there is strong family support to help you cope in times of need. The life-span of sufferers is usually 21 years, however it has been reported that many do lead active lives and live to the age of 50. Affected males are usually sterile, but many women sufferers have successfully given birth to children.Coeliac Disease
What is it?
Children suffering from coeliac disease, have a sensitivity towards gliadin which is found in gluten. Gluten is present in granular foods such as oats, barley, wheat and rye.
Causes:
It is thought that coeliac disease could be linked to a
defective gene - one that produces anti-gliadin antibodies.
Related Symptoms:
Normal development may be hampered, and the child may be
susceptible to other problems, such as rickets.
Treatment:
A strict gluten-free diet will have to be adhered to
throughout life.
Outlook:
Phenylketonuria (PKU)
What is it?
A metabolic disorder, in which the child is unable to metabolize a certain protein, known as phenylalanine.
Causes:
Recessive genes from both parents, need to be passed onto the
child, for it to be affected.
Susceptibility
When both parents are carriers of the recessive gene, there
is a 1 in 4 chance of the child becoming affected.
Related Symptoms:
These children are usually physically well-developed, with a
dry skin that is prone to rashes. Most are lighter haired than
other members of the family, and convulsions are common.
Treatment:
A strict diet will have to be followed for at least eight
years to prevent retardation. High-protein foodstuffs, such as
meat, cow's milk, formula milk, and breast milk will need to be
taken in moderation. Routine monitoring of blood levels will be
necessary, and at times, medication to aid metabolism will be
prescribed.
Outlook:
The sooner the child begins with the special diet the better, and by following these strict eating habits the child will go on to lead a normal life.
