While the pancreas is located in the upper abdomen, different people often describe the location of the pain differently. They may complain of abdominal pain, back pain, or general pain all over the belly – all ranging from mild to strong in intensity.
It’s also common to experience nausea and vomiting.
Younger children may not be able to communicate their pain. Our skilled team will be able to find ways to understand how to best help your child.
Pain from pancreas inflammation can be treated using painkillers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen – or with a prescription, using opioids like tramadol or stronger pain medications.
Stress, a virus, or anxiety can also make pancreatic pain worse. Typical pain medications often do not help much in these instances. In these cases, your child may need special treatment for the acute illness or for anxiety.
Your child’s pain medications can be adjusted as needed. Use them as directed, and give them regularly during pain episodes so the pain does not get too out of control.
You will likely have stronger and weaker painkillers at your disposal. Match the strength of the pain relievers with the strength of the pain. When the pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications, and when the pain is not so bad, less strong medications will be recommended.
Constantly asking your child how they are feeling will only remind them they are in pain. It would be a shame to ruin a good day by reminding them of their pain if it was not bothering them at the time. If your child is focused on playing, reading or other activities, it is helping them to cope and have a more normal life.
Trust them to say something if the pain worsens. But do check in with them if you notice your child looks ill, is not eating or drinking, or seems lethargic.
With all types of pancreatic pain, non-medication approaches are important parts of the treatment plan. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is when a pain psychologist helps develop strategies and skills that can help reduce negative thoughts and ease the emotional and bodily response to the pain.
You will be part of that strategy, which will help you give your child the love and support they need to get through the pain while helping them keep up with their usual life activities.
You will often be the best source of comfort for your child. For younger children, sing songs, read a lively book, or watch a video.
For older children, help them practice the skills they have been working on with their pain psychologist. Keep a structured daily routine and help them maintain any dietary restrictions.
You should call a physician if:
They may need to have labs drawn and an IV placed for hydration and pain medications.
Please call us (513-803-2123) any time you have a question, are worried or just want to check in to make sure you are using the pain medications correctly. We want to make sure you feel comfortable and that your child is comfortable and taken care of.
3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229-3026
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