A stomach issue is always something that seems to pop up from time to time. Whether it’s a classic stomachache or even something more serious like mesenteric adenitis, it’s important to know what to do and how to identify what you or your children are experiencing.
Mesenteric adenitis is a fairly common infection among children and teens, and our AFC Urgent Care Ballantyne team explains more about it below. Keep reading!
What Is Mesenteric Adenitis?
Mesenteric adenitis (also known as mesenteric lymphadenitis) is the swelling of the lymph nodes in the abdomen. It is fairly common among children and teens and doesn’t affect people over the age of 20.
Mesenteric adenitis is most often caused by a viral or bacterial intestinal infection, which causes the lymph nodes to swell and cause pain and tenderness. We’ve listed its most common symptoms below.
Common Mesenteric Adenitis Symptoms
- Pain in the abdomen, often on the lower right side
- Abdominal tenderness
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
How Is Mesenteric Adenitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing this infection is relatively tricky, due to the fact that its symptoms are quite similar to the symptoms of appendicitis. If your child experiences the symptoms we’ve listed previously, visit our AFC center.
A medical professional will then perform a physical exam and obtain the child’s medical history to learn what other medical issues the child has had. Lab work could be necessary, since blood work can signify an infection and the type of an infection. Additionally, imagining tests could be performed to rule out appendicitis, which would require a visit to the ER or hospital.
Ways to Prevent Mesenteric Adenitis
- Washing hands regularly with soap
- Avoiding close contact with someone who is sick
- Keeping food preparation areas clean to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria
We’re here for your family seven days a week! Don’t hesitate to visit our AFC center for all of your non-emergency medical needs.
