Some common causes of stomach pain in children include:
- Indigestion
- Constipation
- Gastroenteritis
- Food allergies or intolerances
- Gas or bloating
Treatment for children’s stomach pain may vary depending on the underlying cause. Some general treatments include:
- Encouraging plenty of fluids
- Providing a bland diet
- Using over-the-counter medications such as antacids or gas relief
- Consulting a healthcare provider for further evaluation if necessary
It is important to pay attention to the frequency and severity of the stomach pain, as well as any additional symptoms that may be present. Seeking medical advice is recommended if the pain persists or worsens.
Common Causes of Stomach Pain
- Digestive problems such as constipation, colic, or irritable bowel syndrome
- Infections like gastroenteritis, kidney infections, or other bacterial infections
- Food-related issues including food poisoning or allergies
- Non-abdominal causes like muscle strains or migraines
- Surgical conditions such as appendicitis or bowel obstruction
- Poisoning from spider bites or ingestion of harmful substances
Recurring Stomach Pain
Children may suffer from recurrent stomach pain with no clear trigger.
Emotional factors or stress can contribute to abdominal discomfort in children.
Appendicitis Overview
Appendicitis, a severe condition that requires surgery, is a common reason for intense stomach pain.
Symptoms may include lower right-sided abdominal pain, fever, and loss of appetite.
Diagnostic Tests
Doctors may recommend diagnostic tests to determine the cause of stomach pain.
Some common diagnostic tests for stomach pain include:
- Blood tests to check for infections or abnormalities
- Imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, or CT scans to look for any issues in the stomach or intestines
- Endoscopy, where a thin tube with a camera is inserted into the stomach to view the digestive tract
- Stool tests to check for infections or parasites
It is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for diagnostic tests in order to properly diagnose and treat any underlying issues causing stomach pain.
Treatment Approaches
The treatment for stomach pain depends on the underlying cause.
Options range from simple home remedies to surgical procedures.
Some common treatment approaches for stomach pain include:
- Over-the-counter medications: Such as antacids, pain relievers, and acid reducers may help alleviate symptoms.
- Dietary changes: Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and staying hydrated can help reduce stomach pain.
- Stress management: Techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress-related stomach pain.
- Probiotics: Adding probiotics to your diet may help improve gut health and reduce stomach pain.
- Medical treatments: In some cases, prescription medications or procedures such as endoscopy or surgery may be necessary to treat underlying conditions causing stomach pain.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment approach for your specific situation. Do not ignore severe or persistent stomach pain, as it could be a sign of a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention.
Pain Relief Tips
- Encourage rest and proper hydration
- Provide bland, easily digestible foods
- Apply heat to the abdomen for relief
- Use pain medications as prescribed
- Practice deep breathing exercises to help relax the body and reduce tension
- Consider trying relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga to reduce stress and alleviate pain
- Stay active with gentle exercises like walking or stretching to help improve circulation and reduce discomfort
- Consult with a healthcare provider for guidance on managing chronic pain and exploring alternative therapies
When to Seek Medical Help
- Severe or worsening pain
- Presence of accompanying symptoms like fever or vomiting
- Unusual symptoms or persistent concerns
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg
- Severe headache or changes in vision
- Inability to keep food or liquids down
- Signs of dehydration, such as dark urine or dizziness
- Any injury involving head trauma or loss of consciousness
Consulting a Healthcare Professional
Understanding how to manage a child’s stomach pain is essential for caregivers.
Explore both natural remedies and medical interventions for effective relief.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional if your child’s stomach pain persists or worsens. A doctor can help determine the underlying cause of the pain and recommend appropriate treatment options. In some cases, further testing or imaging may be necessary to rule out more serious conditions.
Natural Remedies for Stomach Pain
Peppermint Tea and Other Herbal Solutions
Herbal teas such as peppermint can help alleviate stomach discomfort.
Dietary Adjustments
Stick to plain, easy-to-digest foods to alleviate stomach problems.
Rest and Relaxation
Promote rest and relaxation to aid in the recovery process.
Hydration Importance
Ensuring adequate hydration is essential for digestive health and pain relief.
Signs Requiring Medical Attention
- Severe or persistent pain
- Presence of accompanying symptoms like fever or breathing difficulties
Consulting a Professional
Consult with a healthcare professional before giving new medications for stomach pain.
Promptly addressing recurring issues can help prevent complications.
Children experiencing frequent stomach pain should consult their doctor for long-term solutions, potentially involving dietary changes or lifestyle adjustments. Seeking advice from a pediatrician can assist in creating a personalized plan to address the root cause of stomach pain and enhance overall digestive health.
Other symptoms that warrant a healthcare provider visit include persistent bloating, blood in stool, difficulty swallowing, and prolonged heartburn, indicating more serious underlying issues requiring medical attention.
If symptoms persist, seeking timely medical attention is crucial for ensuring a child’s well-being. Recognizing when to seek medical help is vital. A pediatrician can provide valuable support and expertise in managing a child’s digestive health, whether through medication advice or exploring long-term solutions and addressing concerning symptoms.
Preventive Measures and Additional Support
Stomach aches in children can be distressing for both the child and parents. To prevent stomach aches, promote healthy eating habits, hydration, regular physical activity, and proper hand hygiene to prevent stomach infections.
When preparing emergency contacts, compile a comprehensive list including medical contacts, allergies, medications, and existing conditions. This information can be vital during emergencies requiring swift and accurate medical attention.
Serious Stomach Concerns Require Immediate Attention
Create a safe play environment with age-appropriate toys for children. Seek immediate medical assistance if a child swallows an object leading to distress or experiences stomach pain after a fall. Pay attention to signs of appendicitis such as abdominal swelling, constipation, diarrhea, and worsening pain with movement.
Stress and Anxiety Can Cause Stomach Pain
Stress or anxiety may contribute to stomach aches in children. Encourage open communication with your child, establish a supportive atmosphere, and incorporate relaxation techniques to reduce stress levels. Contact a pediatrician if stomach aches persist for further guidance.
It’s important to pay attention to your child’s diet as well, as certain foods can also trigger stomach discomfort. Encourage a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and water to help maintain digestive health.
In addition to diet and stress management, regular exercise can also help promote overall well-being and reduce the likelihood of stomach pains. Encourage your child to engage in physical activities they enjoy to stay active and healthy.
Tummy Aches Can Be a Sign of Underlying Condition
Regular check-ups with a pediatrician are crucial for monitoring a child’s digestive health. Discuss any recurring or severe stomach aches with the healthcare provider to rule out underlying medical conditions and receive appropriate treatment.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
Knowing how to address a child’s stomach ache is essential. Having an understanding of common childhood illnesses and symptoms allows for proper care and timely medical attention when necessary.
Metro Pediatrics offers same-day appointments for unwell children. New patients can call the main office number or schedule a wellness visit online.
healthdirect Australia provides a free service for consultations with a nurse or doctor to guide you on next steps.
Abdominal pain in children can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, constipation, food allergies, or stress. It is important to monitor the child’s symptoms and seek medical attention if the pain persists or is severe. If the child experiences other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits along with the abdominal pain, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider promptly.
Key facts
- Most abdominal pain in children resolves without medical intervention.
- Common causes include constipation and gastroenteritis.
- Diagnosing abdominal pain in babies and children can be challenging.
- Ensure proper hydration to prevent dehydration during illness.
What is abdominal pain in children?
If:
- The stomach pain is severe
- Pain persists
- Your child appears unwell
- You are concerned
Abdominal pain is a common issue in children, felt between the ribs and pelvis.
Most causes of abdominal pain are non-serious and improve within a few days.
This page discusses abdominal pain in children under 12, but information is also available for older children and adults.
What symptoms are related to abdominal pain in children?
Abdominal pain can vary in onset, duration, intensity, and pattern, which aids in diagnosis.
Children with stomach pain may exhibit discomfort through crying, stillness, refusal to eat, or specific expressions.
CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker to assess the need for medical help.
How can I help my child explain their pain symptoms?
Young children and babies may struggle to express pain, making it beneficial to ask simple questions to understand their symptoms.
What causes abdominal pain in children?
Abdominal pain in children has various causes, ranging from acute to chronic, short-term to long-term.
Constipation
Frequent causes of stomach pain include constipation, characterized by difficulty passing stool.
Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis, or ‘gastro,’ is often viral and leads to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration in children.
Food poisoning
Food poisoning from improperly prepared food can mimic gastroenteritis and pose risks, particularly for young children.
Lactose intolerance
Lactose intolerance, difficulty digesting lactose, may result in abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.
Colic
Colic presents as excessive crying in babies without a clear cause, more common in very young infants.
Babies with colic may cry more in the evenings.
Urinary tract infections
Abdominal pain may be accompanied by symptoms like painful urination, increased frequency, fever, vomiting, or general discomfort.
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is a medical emergency characterized by pain moving from the belly button to the lower right abdomen. A ruptured appendix poses life-threatening risks.
Intussusception
Intussusception occurs when a bowel portion slides into the next, causing blockage. Signs include severe, intermittent abdominal pain, bloody stool, vomiting, and fatigue.
Inguinal hernia complications
A hernia results from tissue bulging through a weak spot, leading to symptoms like swelling, pain, nausea, and bloating.
Testicular torsion
Testicular torsion, a twisted testicle reducing blood flow, requires surgery. Symptoms include scrotal pain, swelling, and nausea/vomiting.
Swallowed object
Children sometimes ingest objects causing complications, with symptoms like drooling, pain with swallowing, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
How is the cause of abdominal pain diagnosed in children?
Recognizing abdominal discomfort in children can be difficult and may necessitate diagnostic procedures. The majority of children do not require testing. Healthcare providers will conduct a thorough examination, inquire about symptoms, and occasionally suggest tests.
When should my child see a doctor?
Most children experiencing abdominal pain are unlikely to have a serious condition, but it is crucial to be vigilant for indicators of urgency such as intense pain exacerbated by movement. Seek medical attention for specific warning signs such as fever or persistent vomiting.
When to seek urgent care
If your child is vomiting green or bloody substances or has black or red stool, it is advised to visit the emergency department immediately. Utilize the Service Finder tool to locate appropriate healthcare facilities.
How is abdominal pain treated in babies and children?
In general, abdominal pain typically does not necessitate specific medical intervention, except for self-care measures at home.
Some self-care measures that can help relieve abdominal pain in babies and children include:
- Ensuring proper hydration by offering frequent sips of water or an electrolyte solution
- Encouraging rest and avoiding strenuous activities
- Providing gentle belly massages to help with any gas or constipation
- Offering small, bland meals to ease digestion
- Using a warm compress on the abdomen to relieve discomfort
Self-care at home
When tending to a child experiencing stomach discomfort, ensure they get adequate rest, consume clear fluids, and opt for easily digestible, bland foods like crackers or bananas if they feel hungry.
Medicines
Consider administering pain relief medication, oral rehydration solutions for dehydration, and avoid unnecessary antibiotic use in most instances.
Other treatments
In certain situations, medical treatments like IV fluids or surgery may be necessary for managing abdominal pain.
Resources and support
For guidance on pediatric care, reach out to healthdirect at 1800 022 222 or Pregnancy, Birth and Baby at 1800 882 436. Nurses are accessible round the clock to assist you.