What does abdominal pain mean?
Abdominal pain is a symptom that can indicate anything from gas to a severe gastrointestinal condition.
Most people equate pain in that area with the stomach, but the problem might lie in the intestinal tract instead. That’s why it’s important to see an expert like Dr. Yazdi. He will ask essential questions to help pin down why a child hurts.
What are the different kinds of pain?
Pain encompasses a variety of forms and sensations, and identifying how it feels is a critical diagnostic tool. For example, broad, general pain that covers more than half of the stomach area might indicate a virus, gas, or constipation. Cramps, on the other hand, happen before, during, and after bouts of gas or diarrhea.
Localized pain can indicate something more serious, like appendicitis or a hernia. These conditions need immediate treatment.
How can parents tell if a baby has abdominal pain?
Babies are a challenge when it comes to identifying pain. Some clues that one has abdominal pain include:
- Pulling the legs up toward the stomach
- Refusing to eat
- Crankier than usual
Any one or a combination of these symptoms can mean stomach pain.
What conditions cause abdominal pain?
Abdominal pain is a common symptom, so it’s a long list. Often the symptoms present with the stomach pain provide a diagnosis, such as fever or a rash. Some common conditions include:
- Appendicitis
- Crohn’s disease
- Cystitis
- Intestinal obstruction
- Fecal impaction
- Intussusception
- Mesenteric ischemia
- Pancreatitis
- IBS
- Torn colon
In some cases, gas can cause severe pain, too. If the pain comes and goes, it might be an ulcer, a hernia or celiac disease, as well.
When should parents bring a child with abdominal pain to the doctor?
If the pain is severe, parents should call the office and talk to a member of the staff or Dr. Yazdi. Call immediately if the pain is accompanied by:
- A high fever
- Bloody stools
- Persistent vomiting
- Yellow skin or eyes
- Severe tenderness
- Swelling of the stomach
These symptoms combined with the pain can indicate a serious medical problem.
