Although it’s not the most well-known infection, mesenteric adenitis is a fairly common problem among children and teenagers. What exactly is it, though?

Read on to find out from our AFC Urgent Care Athens, TN team.

What Is Mesenteric Adenitis?

Mesenteric lymphadenitis, or mesenteric adenitis for short, is inflammation of the lymph nodes in the abdomen or stomach area.

Lymph nodes are part of the body’s immune system, and they sometimes become inflamed when they’re trying to filter a virus or bacteria from spreading to the rest of the body. Mesenteric adenitis is most often caused by a viral or bacterial infection in the intestines, in which case the mesenteric lymph nodes become large and tender as they work to localize the infection. If your child is suffering from the symptoms below, he or she likely is dealing with this infection.

Common Mesenteric Adenitis Symptoms

• Pain in the abdomen, often on the lower right side
• Abdominal tenderness
• Fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

How Is Mesenteric Adenitis Treated?

Since it’s often caused by a viral infection, mesenteric adenitis will typically need to run its course before it goes away. This infection won’t cause any lasting health effects and will clear up in one to four weeks.

If this infection is bacterial, though, your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics to get rid of the infection. In the meantime, some of the best things you can encourage your child to do to feel better are listed below.

Ways to Manage Symptoms

• Resting
• Drinking water to stay hydrated after vomiting and diarrhea
• Applying heat to the abdomen

Whether you’re dealing with a stomach infection or some other non-emergency ailment, our AFC Urgent Care Athens, TN team is here for you and your family! Don’t hesitate to visit us to get the quick, quality, affordable care that your family deserves.