Functional Abdominal Pain

Question 1

What is functional abdominal pain?

Answer 1

Child presenting with repeated episodes of abdominal pain without an underlying cause

Question 2

Aetiology of functional abdominal pain

Answer 2

Often corresponds to stressful life events e.g. loss of a relative, bullying

Question 3

Management of functional abdominal pain

Answer 3

Distractthe child from the pain with other activities or interests

Encourage parentsnotto ask about or focus on the pain

Advice about sleep, regular meals, healthy balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercise and reducing stress

Probiotic supplements may help symptoms of IBS

Avoid NSAIDs such as ibuprofen

Address psychosocial triggers and exacerbating factors

Support from a school counsellor or child psychologist