Pediatric Gastroenterology

When your child has issues like abdominal pain, feeding problems, acid reflux, or other gastrointestinal (GI) problems, you need a pediatric gastroenterology specialist with unique knowledge. At the pediatric gastroenterology practice of esteemed physician Israel Kochin M.D., parents and children have a trusted source for comprehensive care. To schedule a visit for your child, you can call the nearest office in the Midwood neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, or the Elmhurst neighborhood of Queens, New York, or book an appointment online today. 

What is pediatric gastroenterology?

Pediatric gastroenterology focuses on gastrointestinal problems affecting children. The gastrointestinal tract includes the mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. 

It combines with the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder to make up the digestive tract. As a pediatric gastroenterologist, Dr. Kochin specializes in the gastrointestinal tract, with additional training in hepatology and nutrition, and provides care for children of all ages.

What types of issues does pediatric gastroenterology cover?

Pediatric gastroenterology covers a broad spectrum of gastrointestinal conditions, diseases, and concerns in children. These include:

• Abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Diarrhea 
• Food allergies
• Acid reflux
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Crohn’s disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Celiac disease
• Hepatitis
• Autism-related gastrointestinal issues
• Cirrhosis
• Dysfunctional swallowing
• Eating disorders
• Malabsorption
• Neonatal jaundice
• Pancreatic diseases
• Peptic ulcers
• Portal hypertension
• Recurrent abdominal pain
• Short bowel syndrome
• Wilson’s disease

Children can experience gastrointestinal problems at any age, from the time of birth to late adolescence and through to adulthood. 

How do pediatric gastroenterology specialists diagnose problems? 

Dr. Kochin uses a range of diagnostic techniques to diagnose gastrointestinal issues in children. He performs a physical exam and carefully reviews your child’s symptoms. Your observations as a parent are especially helpful to Dr. Kochin as he narrows down possible causes for your child’s GI issues. 

Your child may need lab testing, a breath analysis, or other tests in the office. In some cases, Dr. Kochin may need to perform a minimally invasive procedure, such as an upper endoscopy or colonoscopy, to examine your child’s upper or lower GI tract in detail using a long flexible tube and a miniature camera. 

How does pediatric gastroenterology approach treatment?

Dr. Kochin uses the most conservative treatments possible to help your child recover and live their healthiest life. Treatment approaches can include lifestyle-based interventions, dietary counseling, daily medication, and, where necessary, minimally invasive surgical procedures. 

He provides caring support as you navigate your child’s gastrointestinal condition. Whether they have a short-term issue or a chronic disease, he works hand-in-hand with you to give your child the best quality of life. 

To schedule your child’s pediatric gastroenterology visit, call the nearest office of Israel Kochin M.D. or book an appointment online today.