Chronic Abdominal Pain Research Paper

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Chronic abdominal pain in children is most often caused by a functional disorder. There are a variety of treatments that can be helpful, but no single treatment is best. Thus, most experts recommend trying several treatments. This may require several visits with the doctor, especially if pain has been a problem for a long time. Although functional abdominal pain can be triggered or reinforced by a desire for attention, it is rare for a child to "fake" pain. Therefore this child's pain needs to be acknowledged and believe that her pain is real and offer sympathy, support, and reassurance. Since the CT scan and lab work were negative. Other treatment options can be considered. The first goal of treatment is to help this child return to normal activities. Secondly, is to help her pain improve. …show more content…

This will allow them explore stressors, try various treatments, and continue her evaluation when necessary. Stress can worsen pain, whether the source is functional or organic. Children with chronic pain can be depressed or anxious as a result of their pain and their efforts to get relief. Many children benefit from relaxation and behavioral therapies to address these aspects of their pain. Also, during periods of change or stress in families, it can be hard to spend enough time with the child. In some cases, the child will develop chronic or recurrent abdominal pain related to her need for attention. It may be helpful to schedule time daily that is devoted solely to this child. Scheduled time is preferable to time spent together when the child complains of pain. In addition, older children and adolescents with functional abdominal pain can learn brief muscle relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises. These techniques should be performed for 10 minutes at least twice every day, and can also be used during times of pain. A family member can act as "coach" if necessary, provided this attention does not provide positive reinforcement for the pain (Medline plus,

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