Stomach issues seem to be common with Autistic people, both from Autistic adults and parents of autistic children
You often hear of children not being able to empty their bowels for days and parents worrying tremendously about their diarrhoea and reflux also
With that information it may surprise you to hear that the correlation between autism and gut issues is unconnected according to the latest scientific study
Tests show no specific gastrointestinal abnormalities in children with autism
So being Autistic Allies we decided to question our autistic members about why they/we think many have stomach issues and how to manage these issues
Many put it down to anxiety. You know that feeling when your stomach gets in knots.
Some have changed their diets completely whether it's gluten free, lactose free, or just cutting out certain foods. Obviously if you are contemplating doing this with your child, consult a specialist to make sure they are still getting essential food stuffs. Look into the warning signs of removing any food like this one:
The gluten-free diet in children: Do the risks outweigh the benefits?
Many autistic people, especially children have limited diets which may be contributing to bowel issues. Something not assessed often, is the fussiness of eating could easily be connected to sensory issues with your child. Here is a good link which should help with sensory issues:
Oral Sensory Activities
Here is a list of some good methods and medicines. Always consult a doctor before considering a medicine, diet change or method:
Miralax
Probiotics
A good technique for constipation:
"Regular medication helped alongside drinking plenty of water.
Gastro-nurse gave us exercises to do. When particularly bad, gentle but firm tummy massages helped. Lay the affected person on their back, on a firm surface (table or floor), without any clothing on their top half. Starting on their right hip, move up the body, to the rib cage, across the abdomen then down towards the left hip and across to the right hip, all the while maintaining a firm pressure but not so hard as to be overly uncomfortable. Direction is really important here.
Do this 10 times.
Then hold the ankles and move legs in an exaggerated cycling motion, moving the legs their full range.
Repeat the whole set of exercises three times, morning and night, or if person feels like they are about to do a BM but can't.
Seek medical advice where possible for chronic constipation and eat a healthy diet (with lots of water (not tea, coffee or fizzy drinks))."
Most Autistics do see a connection between anxiety and stomach issues.
Remember any advertised diet change will NOT make your child 'less autistic'. If behaviour changes it is more than likely due to your child experiencing less pain and therefore functioning more easily
Never give up, keep going back to your doctors and don't let them ever let your child's health issues down to "Autism".
Warning a quick Google of autism and stomach issues will reveal many uncredited pseudoscience links due to false connections made by Mr Andrew Wakefield. Please read this useful link to understand the science from the rubbish How to read and understand a scientific paper: a guide for non-scientists
or ask in our Facebook group or science page:
Autistic Allies Supporting Science and Debunking Crazy Treatments
It is important to remember that gastric problems/ intolerences / allergies are on the increase in the general population which includes autistic individuals, so these problems aren't related to the fact that your child is autistic. All these issues need guidance from medical professionals.
Like all pages here we will keep adding more information when we see it
