Digestive System
Every child gets a tummy ache or the flu once in awhile, but ongoing symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or poor growth may be cause for concern. Unlike adults, children are still growing, so it’s important to see someone with special training and expertise in pediatric digestive problems.
Care from a Specialist
A pediatric gastroenterologist is a doctor who specializes in digestive system disorders affecting infants, children, and adolescents. University of Iowa Children’s Hospital is home to the most comprehensive gastroenterology service in Eastern Iowa and offers expert diagnosis and care for children with stomach, intestinal, and liver disorders.
- Abdominal pain
- Celiac disease
- Crohn's disease
- Congenital bowel dysfunction
- Congenital liver disorders
- Constipation and soiling
- Diarrhea
- Feeding, growth and nutritional problems
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Indigestion
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Hepatitis
- Pancreatitis
- Peptic ulcers
- Ulcerative colitis
- Vomiting
We believe parents and family members know their children best, so at UI Children’s Hospital, you’re an equal partner on the pediatric health care team. We listen to you and your child so that we can work together to improve your child’s health and well-being.
Lessons from Our Patients and Physicians
The following videos feature our pediatric digestive health specialists and several patients who have benefited from our specialized care.
Celiac Disease
Madline Villhauer: A Medical Mini
Celiac disease is a sensitivity to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and many common processed foods such as pasta, breading, broth, and soy sauce.
Crohn’s Disease Series
Warren Bishop, MD: Pediatric Gastroenterologist
Dr. Warren Bishop speaks about treating Lottie Staggs for Crohn's Disease at University of Iowa Children's Hospital.
Lottie Staggs: A Teenager's Perspective
Lottie speaks about Crohn's Disease and receiving treatment at University of Iowa Children's Hospital.
Jody Staggs: A Mother's Perspective
Jody, mother of Lottie Staggs, speaks about Lottie receiving treatment for Crohn's Disease at University of Iowa Children's Hospital.
Hirschsprung’s Disease
Nate Fisher: UI Children's Hospital Kid Captain 2010
When Nate Fisher was born at University of Iowa Children's Hospital in December 1999, his parents, Brian and Kristi, were as happy as any mom and dad could be. Their first child was a full-term baby boy who appeared perfectly healthy. After 12 hours, however, "something wasn't right," Kristi says.