frequent bowel movements

my grandson who is 7 has stomach aches and frequent loose bowel movements after eating--today he had 7 movements----i am concerned ---this has been going on for several months--should i be concerned?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Difficult to say without evaluation.

Frequent bowel movements can be caused by inflammatory bowel disease or colitis.  If it continues, I would consider a colonoscopy to rule out this cause.

Constant stomach pain should warrant further evaluation with an upper endoscopy to rule out an ulcer or inflammation of the upper digestive tract.  

If the tests remain negative, imaging of the abdomen can be done with a CT scan.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician, or in conjunction with a GI specialist.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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