Common Triggers for Chronic Abdominal Pain in Children and How to Manage Them
As a parent, there’s nothing more concerning than seeing your child doubled over in pain, especially when it’s a recurring issue. Chronic abdominal pain in children can be a puzzling and frustrating experience, with many potential causes hiding beneath the surface. Whether it’s a stomach ache that just won’t go away or pain that keeps coming back, finding the root cause is crucial for your child’s health and comfort. Understanding what triggers chronic abdominal pain and knowing how to manage it can bring peace of mind to both you and your child.
Chronic abdominal pain is commonly seen in children. One in four children develops abdominal pain that lasts for more than 3 months at a time, at some point between 3-18 years of age. It is one of the most common reasons why parents seek advice from a Pediatrician in Hinjewadi.
Chronic abdominal pain refers to stomach aches in children that usually last for more than 2 months and do not respond to traditional treatments. Often, the child has been treated for acidity, gastritis, or dyspepsia and is given home remedies, de-worming treatments, antibiotics, or anti-acidity medicines repeatedly for weeks or months. Abdominal pain is also the leading cause of school absenteeism. It can cause low self-esteem in children and leave parents feeling helpless without the proper treatment. It also affects a child’s appetite and can lead to poor growth.
Common Triggers of Chronic Abdominal Pain:
Functional Abdominal Pain:
Functional abdominal pain is one of the most common causes of recurring stomach aches in children. Unlike pain caused by infections or structural problems, functional abdominal pain has no clear physical cause. It is often linked to heightened sensitivity in the digestive system, stress, or emotional factors.
How to Manage:
- Dietary adjustments: Keeping track of foods that seem to trigger symptoms (spicy, fatty, or dairy foods) can help reduce discomfort.
- Stress management: Relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and reducing academic or social pressure can improve symptoms in children prone to stress.
- Regular routine: Establishing regular mealtimes, proper hydration, and sleep patterns can help ease the symptoms.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common gastrointestinal disorder that causes chronic abdominal pain, often associated with changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation. It is frequently triggered by stress, certain foods, or infections.
How to Manage:
- Dietary changes: A low FODMAP diet (reducing fermentable sugars) has proven effective in managing IBS symptoms.
- Probiotics: Some children may benefit from probiotics that support gut health.
- Medication: A Child Specialist in Hinjewadi may prescribe medications to ease bowel movement issues or manage the pain.
Constipation:
Chronic constipation can lead to recurrent abdominal pain, especially when bowel movements become infrequent or difficult. Children may not recognize the signs of constipation, leading to further complications.
How to Manage:
- Increase fiber intake: Incorporating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into the diet promotes healthy digestion.
- Hydration: Ensure your child drinks plenty of water throughout the day.
- Regular bathroom routine: Encourage your child to use the bathroom regularly and not ignore the urge to go.
Lactose Intolerance:
Lactose intolerance occurs when the body cannot properly digest lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. This can lead to abdominal cramps, bloating, and diarrhea after consuming dairy products.
How to Manage:
- Dairy alternatives: Switching to lactose-free milk or dairy substitutes like almond, soy, or oat milk can help reduce symptoms.
- Enzyme supplements: Over-the-counter lactase enzyme supplements can aid digestion of dairy products.
- Elimination diet: Temporarily removing dairy from your child’s diet can help identify if lactose intolerance is the cause.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):
GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and abdominal pain. Children with GERD may complain of a burning sensation in their chest or throat, especially after eating.
How to Manage:
- Avoid trigger foods: Spicy, acidic, and fatty foods can worsen GERD symptoms. Identifying and avoiding these triggers can help reduce episodes of pain.
- Smaller, frequent meals: Offering smaller portions more frequently throughout the day can help.
- Upright posture after eating: Keeping your child upright after meals prevents acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
Food Allergies:
Food allergies can cause chronic abdominal pain, along with other symptoms like skin rashes, swelling, or breathing difficulties. Common culprits include peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, and seafood.
How to Manage:
- Allergy testing: Identifying the specific allergen through testing helps in formulating a diet plan that avoids triggers.
- Elimination diet: Removing suspected allergens from your child’s diet under medical supervision can provide relief.
- Emergency plan: For severe allergies, ensure your child has access to emergency medications like an epinephrine injector.
Infections:
Recurring infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), parasitic infections, or bacterial infections in the gastrointestinal tract, can cause chronic abdominal pain.
How to Manage:
- Medical treatment: Antibiotics or antiparasitic medications may be required.
- Good hygiene: Encourage regular handwashing and proper bathroom habits.
- Follow-up care: Regular medical check-ups with a General Physician in Wakad can help monitor and prevent recurrent infections.
Dr. Anuja Pakhare at Goodfaith Healthcare, a renowned Pediatrician in Hinjewadi, can provide comprehensive care to diagnose and manage your child’s chronic abdominal pain. With expertise in Chronic Disease Management in Hinjewadi, Dr. Pakhare will evaluate your child’s symptoms, run appropriate tests, and create a personalized treatment plan to address the underlying cause.
Chronic abdominal pain in children can have different causes, ranging from utilitarian issues like IBS and blockage to additional particular triggers like food intolerances or infections. Understanding these triggers and working with your Child Specialist in Hinjewadi can extraordinarily further develop your child’s personal satisfaction. In the event that your child is experiencing repetitive abdominal pain, looking for clinical guidance for a careful assessment is fundamental. For guardians in Hinjewadi, Dr. Anuja Pakhare and her group at Goodfaith Medical services offer master pediatric consideration, ensuring your child gets the best therapy and backing for their abdominal wellbeing.