Functional abdominal pain is a common condition in both children and adults. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of abdominal pain that cannot be attributed to any identifiable disease or medical condition.
This type of pain in the gastrointestinal system can be distressing, but there are ways to identify and treat it effectively. This article will discuss the symptoms of functional abdominal pain, its diagnosis, and how treatments and children’s urgent care options can help.
Symptoms of Functional Abdominal Pain
Functional abdominal pain is chronic stomach pain that cannot be linked to any specific illness or medical problem. The pain is usually recurrent and can be mild to severe. While it can be frustrating for those who experience it, it’s important to note that functional abdominal pain is not life-threatening.
It is commonly described as a crampy, dull, or sharp pain that appears and disappears. Symptoms like bloating, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea may also be present.
Diagnosing Functional Abdominal Pain
Functional abdominal pain has several possible causes, including stress, anxiety, depression, and other psychological factors. These factors can cause changes in the body that lead to pain and discomfort. A thorough medical evaluation is needed to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Functional abdominal pain can be diagnosed once a medical evaluation has ruled out any underlying medical condition. The diagnosis is typically determined by evaluating the person’s symptoms and medical background and ruling out any other potential medical reasons for those symptoms.
Treatment Options for Functional Abdominal Pain
The treatment of functional abdominal pain depends on the severity of the symptoms and the individual case. Symptoms may be managed with lifestyle changes, such as dietary modifications, stress reduction techniques, and regular exercise. Over-the-counter medications, such as antacids, laxatives, or pain relievers, may also help manage symptoms.
Sometimes, prescription medications may be necessary to manage symptoms. These medications may include antispasmodics, anti-anxiety medications, or antidepressants. These medications can reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms, and a healthcare provider can prescribe them.
Children’s Urgent Care and Functional Abdominal Pain
If your child has frequent stomach aches, getting preventive help is critical. Urgent care centers specializing in children’s health can be very helpful for parents worried about their child’s symptoms. The staff at these centers are experts in treating medical issues that affect children, such as functional abdominal pain.
The healthcare provider will carefully examine your child to eliminate any medical issues causing their symptoms. If the symptoms match functional abdominal pain, the healthcare provider will create a personalized treatment plan for your child.
In some cases, lifestyle modifications may be all that is necessary to manage symptoms. In other cases, prescription medications may be necessary to manage symptoms. The healthcare provider will work with you to develop your child’s effective and appropriate treatment plan.
Final Thoughts
Functional abdominal pain is a common condition that can be distressing for those who suffer from it. If you or your child is experiencing recurrent episodes of abdominal pain, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
Parents worried about their child’s symptoms can contact their children’s urgent care facilities for help. These facilities can provide effective treatment for functional abdominal pain, which can help alleviate symptoms and provide relief.
For children’s urgent care in Bradenton, FL, trust Your Kids Urgent Care. Our experienced team provides high-quality medical care for your little ones when they need it most. Visit us today for fast and reliable treatment, so your child can get back to feeling their best.
