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Mesentric lymph nodes
My daughter,6, was suffering from abdominal pain for the past 1 month+. Sometimes it was accompanied with bowel movement 3-4 times a day. We stopped giving her milk,so the frequent bowel movement stopped. But the abdominal pain comes and goes,ranges from mild to severe lasting 2 - 5 mins max, mostly 2-3 times in 24 hrs.. Done USG abdomen. Showing reactive sub cm mesentric lymph nodes. What does it mean? Ps-She had similar episodes of pain without the bowel movements twice in the past 1 year,lasting  about 10 days. Gastritis was suspected. We are not sure if that pain was also related to this lymph nodes. Please guide
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Answers (2)

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Care AI Shimmer
Hello, I understand your concern Your child’s ultrasound finding of “reactive mesenteric lymph nodes” is commonly seen in children and usually indicates a mild, self-limiting infection — often viral or gastrointestinal. These lymph nodes are part of the body’s normal immune response and can cause intermittent abdominal pain, especially near the belly button The pain usually comes and goes, lasts a few minutes, and is not associated with serious disease in most cases. This condition is called mesenteric adenitis and is often confused with gastritis or other abdominal issues. It’s good that stopping milk helped reduce bowel movements — this could suggest temporary lactose sensitivity or a gut reaction to infection, which is also common post-illness.
Next Steps
Watchful waiting is often all that is needed. These nodes usually reduce over time on their own. If pain is bothersome, you may give antispasmodic medicines as advised by your pediatrician. If the pain persists beyond a few weeks, worsens, is associated with weight loss, vomiting, or fever, or if blood appears in stool — further evaluation like stool test, blood tests, or repeat ultrasound may be advised. Avoid unnecessary antibiotics unless clearly indicated.
Health Tips
Encourage soft, non-irritating foods and keep her hydrated. Maintain a food diary if specific foods seem to trigger symptoms. Reassure your child gently; most of these episodes resolve with time and supportive care.
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Mesentric lymph nodes are found in the abdomen and the condition is termed so when they are inflamed. It is usually a viral condition in children and resolves in over few weeks in its own, is a benign condition You can give Paracetamol to relieve pain, a warm compress locally may help It’s good to give a soft bland diet, a diet low in fat. No fried item or spicy food. Bananas and toasted bread are great You can try probiotics like Sporolac or Vizilac for 2 weeks with a lactose free diet. Instead of milk give curd or dahi with active culture- can’t eliminate milk products for long Add Syp Zinc 20 mg per day for 2 weeks
Health Tips
There is a very good homeopathy medicine very helpful for stomach pain and loss of appetite- try Syp Liv T of SBL company - 5 ml twice a day in half a cup of lukewarm water . It will help your child much
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.