Pediatric digestive health care in Indianapolis
Stomachaches and digestive problems can be painful, heartbreaking and keep your child from enjoying school and everyday activities. If your child is having abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, bloating or trouble eating, we’re here to help. Pediatric gastroenterologists, commonly called GI doctors, are specially trained in diagnosing and caring for children and teens with digestive conditions and disorders. Our GI team at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent also treats conditions that can affect the liver and pancreas, and nutrition related problems, such as being underweight or overweight.
When you choose Peyton Manning Children's Hospital for your child's care, your family is connected to a wide range of specialists who are dedicated to caring for kids. Your child’s care team may include GI specialists, dietitians, child life specialists and more. We start by listening to you and your child. Then, we create a personalized care plan that’s right for your child and family.
Peyton Manning Children's Hospital In Indianapolis, Indiana is recognized as a Level 1 Children’s Surgery Center, by the American College of Surgeons Children’s Surgery Verification Quality Improvement Program (ACS CSV), which recognizes its dedication to providing optimal care for its young patients.
Care for simple and complex digestive health conditions
Digestive health is an important part of your child's overall health. We care for all digestive system conditions, including:
- Abdominal pain
- Celiac disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Chrohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
- Constipation and defecation disorders
- Chronic diarrhea
- Dysphagia and eating difficulties
- Esophagitis and eosinophilic esophagitis (an immune system disorder that leads to difficulty swallowing)
- Food allergies and nutrition disorders
- Liver and gallbladder disease
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Pancreas disorders
- Weight loss and growth concerns
Diagnostic testing and treatment for pediatric GI conditions
Your child’s doctor starts by listening to you and your child. Together, we discuss your child’s concerns and health history. Then, your child will have a physical exam. If needed, your child’s doctor may recommend diagnostic tests, such as lab testing, endoscopy, colonoscopy, small bowel capsule endoscopy, pH impedance testing and more. By better understanding your child’s health, we create a personalized care plan that is right for you. Many care plans include a combination of diet changes or medication as well as treatment.
We understand tests and procedures can feel scary for your child and your family. Tell us your concerns and ask us your questions — big and small. Whenever possible, pediatric GI specialists and pediatric surgeons use minimally invasive techniques to diagnose and treat conditions. Your child’s care team takes the time to explain needed tests or procedures to you and your child.
Get a second opinion on your child’s diagnosis or treatment
Get the confidence and peace of mind that your child’s doctor and care plan are right for your child and family. It's easy to get a second opinion at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital. We can review your child’s medical records and healthcare history to answer your questions and discuss options. Talk with one of our pediatric specialists about a personalized care plan for your child.
When your child is facing a new diagnosis or experiencing symptoms of a digestive health condition, there’s a lot to think about. We can discuss both therapeutic or surgical treatment plans. Our team of highly experienced pediatric specialists can provide you with a second opinion based on experience and as part of an integrated national network of care.
Before your child’s appointment, check with your insurance company to find out if a second opinion is covered. We can request their medical records from their doctor on your behalf, so that they can be shared with your care team before your arrival.
Refer a patient to a pediatric specialist
Your patients can expect compassionate, personalized care from the moment our specialists connect with them. Our pediatric specialists start by listening to fully understand their needs and develop an individualized care plan. To make a doctor referral, please call 317-338-9450.
If your child is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, go to the nearest ER or call 911.
