Summer hasn't even arrived, yet due to consuming cold drinks and foods prematurely, cases of stomach ailments in young children are on the rise. Recently, an increasing number of children have been coming to the hospital for endoscopies, and many have been diagnosed by doctors with gastritis or antral gastritis.
Many children, tempted by their sweet tooth, start overindulging in beverages, raw, and cold fruits as soon as the weather warms up in spring. Coupled with the stress from their studies and excessive fatigue, this irritates the stomach's function. Over time, issues like loss of appetite, stomach pain, and gastritis frequently occur. Because the initial symptoms are often not obvious, they can easily be overlooked by parents.
Children are in a stage of growth and development, and the functions of their internal organs are not yet fully mature. If they consume raw and cold foods without restraint, it can lead to indigestion, which over time results in a loss of appetite, poor digestion, and various stomach diseases. If treatment is not timely or not properly targeted, it can affect the child's growth and development.
Dong Youqi, a pediatric expert at the city's Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, reported that when a child experiences occasional abdominal pain after meals, which worsens over time, or has a persistent lack of appetite, a sallow complexion, a bitter or foul taste in the mouth upon waking, or constipation, parents should be on high alert.
It is important to pay attention to a child's proper diet, limiting foods and drinks that are hard on the stomach, such as beverages and cold drinks. Ensure a balance between work and rest, and do not overload children with pressure, protecting both their physical and mental health. At the first sign of stomach discomfort or poor appetite, seek early treatment to prevent the condition from worsening. If a child does indeed develop gastritis or antral gastritis, there is no need to panic. Both Chinese and Western medicine can be effective. In particular, Traditional Chinese Medicine employs syndrome differentiation and treatment, skillfully using methods to promote digestion and strengthen the spleen, regulate qi and harmonize the stomach, and clear heat and dampness. This not only treats the specific condition but also promotes the digestive and absorptive functions.