[43M] Son with persistent stomach pain and nausea

Patient Description

A 43-year-old male reports that his 12-year-old son has been experiencing persistent stomach pain and nausea for 9 days. The pain is described as sharp and cramping, especially after eating, and is located in the middle of the stomach above the belly button. The pain is worse in the mornings and upon palpation. The child has no relief from the symptoms, which are also accompanied by constant nausea. There is no fever, chills, radiation of pain, vomiting, abnormal stools, weight loss, or loss of appetite. The child has a known allergy to peanuts and sulfa. He is currently taking omeprazole (20 mg once daily) and sucralfate (1 gram three times daily). There is no significant past medical history or chronic illnesses reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, your son's symptoms could be due to a few possible conditions:

  • Gastritis: This is inflammation of the stomach lining. It can cause pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, and pain that worsens after eating. The fact that your son is taking omeprazole and sucralfate, which are medications often used to treat conditions related to stomach acid, suggests that he may have been diagnosed with this or a similar condition.

    • Treatment usually involves medications to reduce stomach acid, which your son is already taking. If the cause is a bacterial infection, antibiotics may also be needed.
  • Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore on the lining of the stomach or the beginning of the small intestine. Symptoms can include burning stomach pain, feeling of fullness, bloating, and intolerance to fatty foods.

    • Treatment usually involves medications to reduce stomach acid and protect the stomach lining, which your son is already taking. If the cause is a bacterial infection, antibiotics may also be needed.
  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the digestive tract, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be needed if the cause is a bacterial infection.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information provided and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

  1. Ensure your son stays hydrated, especially if he's feeling nauseous. Dehydration can make symptoms worse.
  2. Encourage your son to eat small, bland meals throughout the day instead of large meals. This may help reduce his symptoms.
  3. Continue to give your son his prescribed medications as directed by his doctor.
  4. Monitor your son's symptoms and seek medical attention if they worsen or don't improve.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if your son:

  • Has severe abdominal pain
  • Vomits blood or has bloody or black stools
  • Has a high fever
  • Shows signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, decreased urination, or dizziness

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Please consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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1 yr ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Acid Reflux (GERD): American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines

People Also Ask


What are the common causes of gastritis in children?

Common causes of gastritis in children include infections (such as H. pylori), prolonged use of NSAIDs, stress, and certain foods or drinks that irritate the stomach lining.


How can I help my child manage nausea at home?

To help manage nausea at home, ensure your child stays hydrated with small sips of water or oral rehydration solutions, encourage rest, and offer bland foods like crackers or toast. Avoid strong odors and greasy or spicy foods.


When should I be concerned about my child's stomach pain?

You should be concerned if your child's stomach pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms like vomiting blood, bloody stools, high fever, or signs of dehydration. In such cases, seek medical attention promptly.


What dietary changes can help alleviate my child's stomach pain?

Dietary changes that may help include eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding spicy, fatty, or acidic foods, and ensuring your child avoids any known allergens. Bland foods like rice, bananas, and applesauce can be soothing.


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