Paediatric gastroenterology

Paediatric Gastroenterology is the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders concerning the stomach or the intestines for children. Such conditions may affect the oesophagus (swallowing tube), pancreas, stomach, small intestine and large intestine.

Children who experience gastro-intestinal complications may require a number of investigations to diagnose their condition, such as blood tests, breath testing (for sugar intolerance), stool tests and possibly an endoscopy (a long flexible tube with a camera attached that is inserted via the mouth or anus).

The Paediatric Gastroenterology Department at the Royal Free Private Patients Unit consists of a team of highly skilled consultants that are well trained in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of gastroenterology diseases. Using the most advanced equipment to date, we are able to tailor each service to our patients’ needs. We offer the following treatments for the below gastro-intestinal conditions:

Gastro-oesophageal reflux – a disorder in which the stomach acid travels up the opesophagus causing issues such as heartburn and nausea. This condition is common in all age groups and with children is usually the result of an allergic reaction.

Coeliac disease – this is an inflammatory condition associated with the small intestine, often triggered by a child’s intolerance to gluten. Symptoms can range from diarrhoea to weight loss and even mouth ulcers. This condition is usually diagnosed through the endoscopy procedure.

Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis) – a term used to represent a group of disorders in your intestines that cause inflammation of the digestive tract, the two main illnesses associated with this condition are Ulcerative Colitis which affects the colon and Chron’s Disease which affects your whole digestive system.

Recurrent abdominal pain – a common condition associated in all age groups, further investigation would be required to diagnose the root of the issue.

For more information, a quotation or to book an appointment, please contact our dedicated enquiries team who are available Monday – Friday from 8am – 6pm on 020 7317 7751 or rf-tr.privateenquiries@nhs.net.