Chronic abdominal pain is a common concern among children and adolescents, affecting their ability to enjoy everyday activities and impacting their overall well-being. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine in Atlanta, we specialize in diagnosing and treating chronic abdominal pain in children. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to help your child find relief and regain their health.
What is Chronic Abdominal Pain?
Chronic abdominal pain is defined as recurrent or persistent stomach pain lasting for more than two months. Unlike occasional tummy aches, chronic pain can interfere with your child’s daily life, causing discomfort, anxiety, and difficulty in school and social settings. It’s important to consult a pediatric gastroenterologist if your child experiences ongoing abdominal pain, as it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires attention.
According to the American College of Gastroenterology, up to 15% of school-aged children experience chronic abdominal pain at some point, making it a common issue that often requires specialized care.
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Common Causes of Chronic Abdominal Pain in Children
There are several potential causes of chronic abdominal pain in children, including:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
One of the most common causes of chronic abdominal pain in children, IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects the way the gut works. Symptoms often include stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing pain, heartburn, and discomfort. Chronic acid reflux can lead to persistent abdominal pain and may require medication or dietary changes.
Constipation
Many children experience chronic constipation, which can cause significant discomfort and pain. Constipation may be due to dietary factors, dehydration, or even stress and anxiety.
Food Intolerances
Some children may have intolerances or sensitivities to certain foods, such as lactose or gluten, which can lead to ongoing stomach pain and digestive issues.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, both forms of IBD, can cause chronic inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
Stress and Anxiety
Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression can manifest as physical symptoms, including chronic abdominal pain. It’s important to address both the physical and emotional aspects of pain in pediatric patients.
Diagnosing Chronic Abdominal Pain
At our Atlanta pediatric clinic, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing the cause of your child’s chronic abdominal pain. During your visit, we will:
Medical History Review
We will begin by discussing your child’s symptoms, medical history, diet, and any factors that may contribute to their pain. Understanding the full picture helps us tailor the diagnostic process to your child’s specific needs.
Physical Examination
A thorough physical exam helps us identify any visible signs of discomfort, such as tenderness, bloating, or other abnormalities.
Diagnostic Testing
Depending on your child’s symptoms, we may recommend diagnostic tests such as blood work, stool analysis, or imaging (such as an ultrasound) to rule out or confirm certain conditions. In some cases, endoscopy or colonoscopy may be necessary to examine the digestive tract more closely.
Treatment for Chronic Abdominal Pain
Once we determine the cause of your child’s abdominal pain, we’ll create a customized treatment plan designed to relieve discomfort and address the root issue. Treatment options may include:
Dietary Changes
For children with food intolerances, constipation, or IBS, adjusting their diet can make a significant difference. We may recommend increasing fiber intake, eliminating trigger foods, or following specific diets (such as a low-FODMAP diet for IBS) to reduce symptoms.
Medications
For conditions like GERD, IBS, or IBD, medications can help manage symptoms and reduce inflammation. Our pediatric gastroenterologists will work with you to find the safest and most effective medications for your child.
Behavioral Therapy
Stress and anxiety can play a major role in chronic abdominal pain. Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help your child manage anxiety and reduce the frequency and severity of pain.
Hydration and Exercise
Encouraging your child to stay hydrated and engage in regular physical activity can improve digestive health and reduce pain associated with constipation or bloating.
Follow-Up Care
Managing chronic abdominal pain often requires ongoing care. We will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your child’s progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Why Choose Us for Pediatric Gastroenterology Care?
Our pediatric gastroenterology team is committed to providing expert care tailored to the unique needs of children and their families. With years of experience in diagnosing and treating chronic abdominal pain, we offer the most advanced treatments and compassionate support throughout the process.
Comprehensive, Child-Centered Care
We focus on both the physical and emotional well-being of our patients, ensuring that your child feels comfortable and cared for every step of the way.
Advanced Diagnostics and Treatment
Our clinic uses the latest diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatments to accurately diagnose and manage chronic abdominal pain.
Personalized Approach
No two children are alike, which is why we create individualized treatment plans that address your child’s specific symptoms and health concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chronic Abdominal Pain
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Chronic abdominal pain is defined as recurrent or persistent stomach pain that lasts for more than two months. Unlike occasional tummy aches, this type of pain can significantly impact your child’s daily activities, including eating, playing, and attending school.
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There are several potential causes of chronic abdominal pain in children, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), food intolerances, stress, and even infections. Sometimes, emotional stress or anxiety can also manifest as physical stomach pain.
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While occasional stomachaches are common, you should seek medical attention if the pain is severe, lasts for more than a few days, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, weight loss, or blood in the stool.
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Depending on the cause, home management may include ensuring a balanced diet, encouraging regular physical activity, promoting hydration, and following any prescribed treatment plans. Tracking pain triggers can also help your healthcare provider adjust the treatment plan if necessary.
Get Relief for Chronic Abdominal Pain in Atlanta
If your child is experiencing ongoing stomach pain, don’t wait to seek help. Our team at Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine in Atlanta is here to provide compassionate care and effective solutions for chronic abdominal pain. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get your child on the path to relief and better health.