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Recurrent abdominal pain: gaining control of the symptom
American Journal of Diseases of Children (1960)
|December 1, 1977
Summary
Pediatricians can effectively treat recurrent abdominal pain by shifting family focus from organic to emotional issues during a family conference. This approach alleviates symptoms and prevents unnecessary medical tests and doctor shopping.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Medicine
- Family Psychology
- Child Psychiatry
Background:
- Recurrent abdominal pain in children often lacks an organic cause, posing diagnostic and treatment challenges.
- Families frequently focus on physical symptoms, leading to extensive medical investigations and 'doctor shopping'.
Observation:
- A family conference with a pediatrician can redirect focus from organic to emotional factors.
- A positive, phased approach is crucial to avoid overwhelming families with emotional issues prematurely.
Findings:
- Shifting the focus to emotional issues during a family conference led to symptom alleviation in 19 patients.
- This intervention successfully prevented unnecessary medical tests and reduced 'doctor shopping'.
- The approach laid a foundation for successful psychotherapy when needed.
Implications:
- This strategy offers a cost-effective and efficient method for managing functional abdominal pain in children.
- It empowers pediatricians to address psychosocial aspects of childhood illness.
- Early intervention can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare resource utilization.