Cerebral Palsy Digestive Issues and Health

Fact Checked

Children with cerebral palsy are at an increased risk for digestive issues, including upset stomach, vomiting, bloating, and constipation. While these ailments are often minor and temporary, they may also be chronic or indicate a more serious underlying problem.

Does Cerebral Palsy Affect Digestion?

Yes, having cerebral palsy can affect digestion in many ways. Some children struggle with serious digestive issues, while others have mild or no digestive symptoms.

According to a study of 58 children with cerebral palsy, 92% had gastrointestinal symptoms. Sixty percent of the children had swallowing issues (dysphagia), 32% had abdominal pain, and 74% experienced ongoing constipation.[1]

Why Do Children With Cerebral Palsy Have Digestive Problems?

Poor feeding, unusual positioning, poor mobility, muscle spasms, difficulty swallowing, and excess drooling can all contribute to digestive issues for children with cerebral palsy. Changes in breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and overall mood can occur with feedings and digestion.

These children may also be unable to digest their food correctly and absorb enough nutrients. If digestion issues become too severe, they can become life-threatening.

Symptoms of Digestion Problems

The following symptoms of digestion issues indicate a baby or child may need to be evaluated by their medical team:[2]

• Constipation
• Incontinence
• Unable to feed (as babies) or refusing food
• Issues with swallowing or sucking
• Unusual weight gain or weight loss
• Vomiting
• Unusual fatigue
• Choking and aspiration

If you are unsure whether your child’s condition is severe, it’s always a good idea to consult your pediatrician.

Gastrointestinal Conditions in Cerebral Palsy

Children with cerebral palsy are at a heightened risk of developing specific digestive issues. The most common types of disorders and diseases include:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) occurs when the body’s GI Tract isn’t working properly. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), IBS is a disorder marked by bloating, alternating diarrhea and constipation, abdominal pain, and flatulence.[3]

Malnutrition

Digestive issues can lead to malnutrition, typically when children can’t correctly swallow foods and liquids. According to a 2008 study, malnutrition is a common secondary disorder associated with cerebral palsy.[4]

Malnutrition is a serious issue that can lead to poor growth, muscle loss, weight problems, and impaired motor function.

Dysphagia

Dysphagia is a term used to define difficulties with swallowing, making the body take additional time to move liquids and foods into the stomach. Since cerebral palsy impacts a child’s fine motor skills, it also affects their ability to eat and drink properly.

Acid Reflux and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is a digestive disease in which the stomach’s acid rises into the esophagus. This is called acid reflux. Acid reflux causes an uncomfortable burning sensation in the chest.

Children with GERD may also regurgitate their foods and liquids and have a sour taste in their mouths afterward. Other symptoms may include difficulties with swallowing, coughing, and hoarseness.

Treatment for Digestive Issues

If your child shows symptoms of digestive issues, a pediatrician may make a referral to a gastroenterologist. A gastroenterologist is a professional medical specialist who focuses on digestive issues, including diseases, and methods to help those who suffer from digestive problems.

Gastroenterology professionals help treat a wide range of digestive issues, including (but not limited to) irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s Disease, ulcers, and gallbladder problems.

A gastroenterologist can help children with digestion issues by offering individualized treatment after a complete medical and physical checkup. The type of treatment the child receives will depend on their specific digestive problem.

For instance, children with constipation and other bowel issues may be placed on a special diet, as well as given probiotics and medications such as antispasmodics.[5] In other instances, children may be referred to specialists who can assist them in learning new methods of swallowing and drinking.

One of the easiest ways to help children with digestive issues is to eliminate foods and liquids that trigger adverse reactions. Sometimes, this isn’t always easy to discern without professional help, but past studies indicate that diet changes can be highly effective in helping children with digestive problems.

A feeding tube may be recommended for severe digestive issues, especially for children who cannot eat or have difficulties swallowing. A feeding tube delivers liquid nutrients to children through a surgical procedure that places a tube in the child’s abdominal wall or via a tube inserted into the nose and advanced to the stomach.

There are many treatment options for children with digestive issues, but seeking medical help as soon as possible is important. As with most disorders and diseases, the sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of success.