Stomach pain in children is not trivial.
So-called functional abdominal pain affects 3 out of 10 school-age children and is the leading cause of school absences in the world.
It is a benign condition which in 80% of cases resolves within two years of medical consultation, but should not be overlooked because it negatively affects the child's quality of life.
It affects the age group from 4 to 18 years, and is characterized by pain localized mainly around the navel which occurs for at least 4 days a month and for at least 2 consecutive months.
This may be associated with headache, dizziness, tiredness, pain in the limbs and nausea.
This is the most common disorder described to family pediatricians.
While it does not have an organic cause, it often leads to repeated doctor visits and possible depression and anxiety.
To raise awareness of this disorder, the European Society of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Pediatric Nutrition (Espghan) is promoting a health campaign across Europe.
In Italy the campaign is carried out in collaboration with the Italian Society of Pediatrics (Sip) and with the Italian Society of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Pediatric Nutrition (Sigenp).
Flyers, posters, brochures and a comic will be distributed to paediatricians, but will also be made available to parents on social channels and on the website of the Italian Society of Paediatrics.
The campaign was presented today to the Ministry of Health.
"Functional abdominal pain - explains Sanja Kolacek, Espghan spokesperson - is a benign but tedious condition, which hinders the daily life of the affected child and his family. If addressed correctly, over 80% of children will no longer experience pain and he'll be fine."
"Even if it is a benign condition, underestimating the symptoms can make the situation worse - concludes Sip president Annamaria Staiano -. It is important to encourage children and young people to continue carrying out normal activities such as going to school, doing physical activity: this It can distract them and relieve symptoms. It is also important to help them maintain a good sleep pattern and proper nutrition and to reassure them that the pain has no serious cause and is temporary."
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