My child gets frequent abdominal pain. What are the causes?
Abdominal pain is a common complaint that can have various underlying causes. Chronic constipation is one of the most prevalent causes of abdominal pain. However, the pain can also be a result of other conditions such as swollen lymph nodes, surgical problems (e.g., appendicitis, gut obstruction), tuberculosis infection, pancreatitis, and inflammatory bowel disease. In some cases, food allergies such as celiac disease or menstrual pain can also lead to abdominal discomfort. Additionally, stress and anxiety can cause abdominal pain in some children.
The location of the pain can provide important information about the underlying cause. Generalized pain in the abdominal area is usually caused by indigestion, gas, or viral infection. Pain that is limited to a specific area of the abdomen can indicate an issue in a particular organ, such as inflammation of the appendix or digestive system.
Abdominal pain at night is often associated with digestive problems, which are the most common cause of nighttime stomach pain. If you experience persistent or severe abdominal pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention from Dr. Sushma, Child specialist at Sri Anand Child and Neuro Center to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
My child gets frequent abdominal pain. How do I know that whether it could be due to a serious condition or not?
When a child complains of a tummy ache, it may or may not be a sign of a serious underlying problem. A child who appears well and continues with their normal daily activities after complaining of abdominal pain is unlikely to have a severe issue. On the other hand, a child who looks pale, appears unwell, and experiences pain so severe that they cannot be distracted from it and do not want to move, requires immediate medical attention and should not be ignored.
If any of the following danger symptoms are present, the child needs urgent medical attention:
In such cases, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Dr. Sushma, Pediatrician at Sri Anand Child and Neuro center can help you in finding out the cause of your child’s pain abdomen.
If any of the following danger symptoms are present, the child needs urgent medical attention:
What is Constipation?
Constipation is a prevalent issue among children, and it refers to the difficulty in passing hard stools (feces) with less frequency than normal. When this condition persists for more than four weeks, it is considered “significant constipation.” It is crucial to recognize constipation early to prevent it from developing into a long-term issue.
Various factors can cause constipation in children, including inadequate fluid and fiber intake, lack of physical activity, and certain medical conditions. Delaying or avoiding the use of the toilet can also lead to constipation.
If left untreated, constipation can lead to other health problems, such as abdominal pain, anal fissures, and fecal impaction. Therefore, it is essential to identify the symptoms of constipation early and seek medical attention to prevent it from becoming a long-term problem. Dr. Sushma, Pediatrician in Chandanagar, can provide guidance on how to manage constipation effectively, which may include dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and exercise.
What is Diarrhea? When can it be dangerous?
Diarrhea is a condition characterized by unusually loose or watery stools that occur at least three times in a 24-hour timeframe. The most noticeable symptom of diarrhea is a recent change in the consistency of the stool. Normally, stool consistency is soft and passes easily. In contrast, diarrhea is characterized by loose or watery stool, which means that there is more water than fecal matter in the stools. As a result, a loose stool takes the shape of the container in which it is passed. The passage of more water in stools can result in dehydration, which is the most serious complication of diarrhea.
Aside from dehydration, diarrhea can also cause imbalances in electrolytes, specifically sodium and potassium, in the body. In cases of cholera, even a single large stool can result in severe dehydration. It is essential to identify the symptoms of diarrhea early, including loose and watery stools, abdominal pain, cramping, and dehydration, and seek medical attention to prevent complications. Treatment for diarrhea may involve increasing fluid intake to prevent dehydration, taking over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms, and making dietary changes. In severe cases, hospitalization and intravenous fluids may be necessary.
My child develops diarrhea every now and then. What should I do?
Preventing frequent episodes of diarrhea requires taking certain measures. The following steps can be useful:
My child develops diarrhea every now and then. What should I do?
Preventing frequent episodes of diarrhea requires taking certain measures. The following steps can be useful:
Dr. Sushma, Pediatrician, can evaluate your child for recurrent diarrhea at Sri Anand Child and Neuro Center.
