Pain in the upper left side of a child’s abdomen can occur suddenly and is often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or increased pain when moving, coughing, or sneezing.
This type of pain, especially when located under the left rib cage, may stem from a variety of underlying medical issues. It should always be evaluated by a doctor—preferably a pediatric gastroenterologist—particularly if the pain is severe or lasts more than two days. According to Healthline, here are the most common causes of upper left abdominal pain in children:
1. Pancreatitis
The pancreas, located behind the stomach in the upper left quadrant, is responsible for producing digestive enzymes and hormones like insulin and glucagon. Pancreatitis can cause intense pain beneath the left rib cage that may radiate to the back. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and fever.
The most common causes of pancreatitis in children include viral infections (e.g., measles, mumps), gallstones, cystic fibrosis, or the use of certain medications.
Medical attention is essential. The child may need hospitalization for IV fluids and pain management. In severe cases, surgery might be required. Dietary changes, such as avoiding fatty foods, can reduce the risk, and oral enzyme supplements may be recommended by the doctor.
2. Kidney Stones
Kidney stones form when calcium and salt deposits harden into stone-like clumps. This can obstruct urine flow, leading to deep back pain that radiates forward and upward toward the affected side.
Symptoms may include:
-
Burning during urination
-
Nausea or vomiting
-
Fever over 38°C (100.4°F)
-
Blood in the urine
One of the main causes in children is insufficient fluid intake.
Medical intervention is necessary. Intravenous pain relief can provide immediate comfort. In more severe cases, the doctor may use lithotripsy or ureteroscopy to break or remove the stones. Increasing the child's water intake helps prevent recurrence.
3. Gastritis
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause sharp pain in the upper left abdominal quadrant. Other symptoms include:
-
Burning sensation in the esophagus
-
Nausea
-
Slow digestion
-
Fullness
-
Frequent burping
Causes include medications that irritate the stomach lining (e.g., NSAIDs) or H. pylori bacterial infection.
Dietary adjustments are key: a light diet with fresh vegetables, cooked fruits, lean meats, and minimal spices or sauces is recommended. Children should mainly drink water and avoid irritating foods like coffee, chocolate, and carbonated drinks.
4. Splenomegaly (Enlarged or Inflamed Spleen)
The spleen, located in the upper left abdomen, filters blood, removes damaged red blood cells, and produces/stores white blood cells.
Infections, whether bacterial or parasitic, can cause the spleen to become inflamed. Symptoms include:
-
Pain under the left rib cage
-
Abdominal swelling
-
Loss of appetite
-
Fatigue
-
Fever
Diagnosis involves physical examination, blood tests (e.g., CBC, liver function), and possibly ultrasound imaging.
Treatment typically includes pain relief, anti-inflammatory medications, or antivirals, depending on the underlying cause.
5. Intestinal Issues
Parts of the small and large intestines lie beneath the left rib cage, so abdominal pain in this area may result from conditions like:
-
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
-
Diverticulitis
-
Crohn’s disease
Symptoms may include:
-
Bloating
-
Diarrhea or constipation
-
Loss of appetite
-
Mucus or blood in stool
-
Excessive gas or belching
Bowel obstruction can also cause intense pain, and may present with:
-
Vomiting
-
Lack of bowel movement
-
Cold sweats
-
Fever
Sometimes, symptoms may appear after consuming fried, fatty, or processed foods. Persistent or recurring symptoms, especially bloody stools, warrant medical evaluation.
6. Stomach Ulcers
Gastric ulcers are lesions in the stomach lining, often caused by H. pylori infection or a poor, nutrient-deficient diet. Children may experience:
-
Indigestion
-
Nausea
-
Appetite loss
-
General discomfort
While ulcers don’t always cause pain in children, when they do, the pain is usually felt in the upper central abdomen and may radiate toward the ribs—on either the left or right side.
Diagnosis may involve endoscopy, and treatment includes:
-
Antibiotics
-
Antacids
-
In some cases, surgery for severe ulcers
If your child experiences ongoing or severe pain in the upper left abdomen, particularly if it's accompanied by fever, vomiting, or changes in appetite or bowel habits, consult a doctor immediately. Timely diagnosis and proper management can prevent complications and ease your child’s discomfort.
Would you like this turned into:
-
A printable parent guide?
-
A doctor’s handout or info sheet?
-
A summarized version for your website or social media?
Let me know how you plan to use it, and I’ll tailor it for that purpose!
Post a Comment