No, it’s not. Mesenteric adenitis occurs when the lymph nodes in the abdomen become swollen as they try to fight off a viral or bacterial intestinal infection, but only in the rarest of cases would this condition lead to life-threatening symptoms.

Read on to learn more about it from our AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail team.

What Causes Mesenteric Adenitis?

The most common cause is a viral or bacterial infection in the intestines. Mesenteric adenitis is actually a swelling of the lymph nodes in the mesentery, which attaches the long and short intestines to your abdominal wall and holds them in place.

If the intestines become infected, the lymph nodes swell up and cause abdominal and stomach pain. Although it can be uncomfortable to experience, this condition doesn’t usually last longer than a couple of weeks and will often go away on its own without medical treatment.

Common Mesenteric Adenitis Symptoms

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

Is Mesenteric Adenitis as Serious as Appendicitis?

Again, no, it’s not. Although appendicitis symptoms are very similar to mesenteric adenitis symptoms at times, appendicitis calls for immediate medical attention and, in most cases, surgery to prevent the appendix from rupturing and causing further catastrophic damage to the body.

Although mesenteric adenitis is rarely serious, it can cause some concerning symptoms at times. If your child experiences the symptoms below, visit our AFC center to learn what your next steps should be.

When to See a Doctor

• Your child has episodes of sudden, severe abdominal pain
• Your child has episodes of abdominal pain with fever
• Your child has episodes of abdominal pain with diarrhea or vomiting

Although mesenteric adenitis usually affects younger children and teens, it can affect anyone at any age. Visit our AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail team today if you believe you or your child is dealing with this condition or any other non-emergency medical issue!