Health
Pediatricians issue guidance for chronic abdominal pain in kids
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted April 4, 2005
When dealing with children with chronic abdominal pain, physicians should be alert to persistent fever, significant vomiting and other symptoms that could indicate disease and the need for diagnostic tests. For cases where there is no evidence of organic disease, treatment goals should focus on the return to full function rather than complete elimination of pain, says a technical report in the March Pediatrics.
Experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition reviewed the literature to develop recommendations for a condition that is common but that has few easy solutions. The committee also concluded that most children presenting with the problem in the primary care pediatrician's office do not need diagnostic testing but that there is little conclusive evidence for one therapeutic strategy or another.
Peppermint oil might help children with irritable bowel syndrome. Fiber supplements may decrease the frequency of pain attacks, and a lactose-free diet could reduce symptoms in some children.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2005/04/04/hlbf0404.htm.
