Understanding Recurrent Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain that comes and goes for a long period of time can have many causes. We provide comprehensive evaluation and personalised treatment plans.
Complex Causes
Recurrent abdominal pain may come about because of damage to the gut, from an inflammatory condition or altered function and/or altered sensitivity of the gut.
Altered Gut Function
Altered gut function may be a result of previous infections, altered gut motility, dietary intolerance, or psychological factors, to name a few.
Comprehensive Evaluation
Your GP may investigate with blood tests or other tests. We provide specialised evaluation to identify the root cause of your child's pain.
Multiple Causes
Complex evaluation needed
Gut Function
Altered sensitivity
Treatment Approaches
Treatment for recurrent abdominal pain from altered gut function may include multiple approaches tailored to your child's specific needs.
Dietary Modification
Identifying and eliminating food triggers that may be causing your child's abdominal pain and discomfort.
Psychological Techniques
Addressing stress, anxiety, and psychological factors that may contribute to gut sensitivity and pain.
Medication
When appropriate, medication may be prescribed to help manage symptoms and improve gut function.
Common Causes
Understanding the various factors that can contribute to recurrent abdominal pain in children.
Previous Infections
Past infections that may have altered gut function and sensitivity.
Altered Gut Motility
Changes in how the digestive system moves food through the intestines.
Dietary Intolerance
Sensitivity to certain foods that can trigger abdominal pain and discomfort.
Psychological Factors
Stress, anxiety, and emotional factors that can affect gut sensitivity and pain perception.
Compassionate Care Approach
With a compassionate approach and personalised treatment plans, we aim to make every visit a positive experience, ensuring both you and your child feel supported and well-cared-for.
Personalised Care
Treatment plans tailored specifically to your child's unique symptoms and needs.
Family Support
Supporting the entire family through education, guidance, and ongoing care.
Ongoing Care
Continuous monitoring and adjustment of treatment plans as your child's needs evolve.
Red Flags — When to Seek Urgent Review
Most recurrent abdominal pain is functional, but the following symptoms require prompt specialist evaluation:
- ✓Pain that wakes your child from sleep
- ✓Blood in the stool or vomit
- ✓Unexplained weight loss or poor growth
- ✓Persistent vomiting alongside pain
- ✓Pain localised to the right lower abdomen
- ✓Fever accompanying the abdominal pain
- ✓Joint pain or swelling alongside gut symptoms
- ✓Family history of IBD or coeliac disease
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
- →Detailed pain history including location, character, timing, and triggers
- →Dietary history and food diary review
- →Physical examination
- →Blood tests, stool tests, and urine analysis
- →Abdominal ultrasound if clinically indicated
- →Tailored management plan: dietary modifications, gut-directed therapy, or further investigation
- →Liaison with psychologist if functional gut disorder is suspected
Referral & Medicare: A current GP or paediatrician referral is required for Medicare rebates.