Chronic abdominal pain refers to persistent or recurrent abdominal discomfort that can vary in intensity and significantly impact the quality of life.

Common Causes of Chronic Abdominal Pain:

– Irritable Bowel Syndrome

– Inflammatory Bowel Disease

– Gastritis

– Chronic Pancreatitis: inflammation of the pancreas

– Chronic Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

– Chronic post-surgical pain

– Abdominal Nerve Entrapment Syndrome

– Functional Abdominal Pain Syndrome

Assessment and Diagnosis:

To understand and treat chronic abdominal pain effectively, a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause.

– Comprehensive history and assessment

– Investigations: ultrasound, X-ray, MRI, CT scan

– Follow-up for a personalised multimodal management plan

– Review of the agreed-tailored pathway outcomes

– Referrals to specialists (e.g. Gastroenterologist, Gynaecologist)

Multimodal Treatment: 

Treatment varies based on the underlying cause and may include:

– Oral analgesics

– Pain interventions: Nerve blocks, Pulsed radiofrequency of the nerves

– Physical therapy: Abdominal muscle relaxation exercises

– Lifestyle and dietary changes

– Psychological support: stress management and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

– Surgery for specific conditions such as endometriosis, gallstones, or structural abnormalities