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Recurrent Abdominal Pain (RAP)

Recurrent abdominal pain, or RAP, is a condition affecting children in which at least three separate episodes of abdominal pain occur within a 3-month period. These episodes are often severe enough to interfere with a child's normal activities.

Children with RAP normally complain of pain around the navel (umbilicus). The pain usually is dull but at times can be severe. RAP often occurs with other symptoms such as headache, vomiting, and pale skin color (pallor).

Although a cause for symptoms usually cannot be determined, emotional stress may be a major contributor.

Last Revised: January 13, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine

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