Dealing with a child’s stomach ache can be distressing for both the child and the caregiver. It is important for caregivers to be knowledgeable about how to address a child’s stomach ache, whether through home remedies or seeking medical help.

To help alleviate a child’s discomfort, caregivers can explore different options such as adjusting the diet, using over-the-counter medications, and consulting with a healthcare professional if necessary.

Metro Pediatrics is committed to offering guidance on managing childhood stomach aches effectively.

Natural Remedies for Soothing Tummy Aches in Children

Stomach aches are common in children, and using natural remedies along with over-the-counter medications can help ease the pain. Here are some natural remedies to consider:

Peppermint Tea and Other Home Solutions

Peppermint tea, ginger tea, chamomile tea, or warm lemon water can help soothe the stomach and aid digestion. These herbal teas have properties that help reduce bloating and inflammation.

Dietary Recommendations for Easing Discomfort

During a stomach ache, sticking to easy-to-digest foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet) can be beneficial. Yogurt, rich in probiotics, can also help restore the gut’s healthy bacteria.

The Role of Rest and Comfort Measures

Rest is crucial for recovery from a stomach ache. Using a warm compress, engaging in gentle activities, and practicing deep breathing exercises can all contribute to relieving discomfort.

Hydration and Herbal Remedies

Drinking water and herbal teas to stay hydrated is important for maintaining digestive health. Older children may find relief from commercial herbal remedies.

If the pain is severe or persists, it is essential to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.

When to Consult a Pediatric Healthcare Provider

Recognizing when to seek medical help is vital for maintaining good health. Signs that warrant a consultation with a pediatric healthcare provider include persistent or severe stomach pain, along with fever, vomiting, or weight loss.

Guidance on Medication and Professional Advice

Before giving new medications for stomach aches, consulting with a pediatrician is recommended. Seeking professional guidance can help identify the underlying causes of recurrent issues and prevent potential complications. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the healthcare provider and not to self-medicate.

Long-term Solutions for Recurring Stomach Aches

If a child frequently experiences stomach aches, seeking advice from a doctor for personalized long-term solutions is advised. Symptoms like persistent bloating or blood in stool should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and seek regular check-ups to address any ongoing issues.

Preventive Measures and Additional Support

Promoting healthy eating habits, adequate hydration, physical activity, and proper handwashing can help prevent stomach aches in children. It is also beneficial to have a list of emergency contacts readily available for assistance.

Serious Stomach Concerns Require Immediate Attention

Creating a safe environment for children to prevent accidents is crucial. Supervising outdoor play and being alert for signs of appendicitis or abdominal injuries that require immediate medical attention can help keep children safe.

Stress and Anxiety Can Cause Stomach Pain

Stress or anxiety can sometimes be the cause of stomach aches in children. Encouraging open communication, relaxation techniques, and seeking advice from a pediatrician if the symptoms persist can be helpful.

Tummy Aches Can Be a Sign of Underlying Condition

Regular check-ups with a pediatrician are essential for monitoring digestive health. Timely medical interventions can help prevent complications and identify potential issues early on.

Schedule an Appointment Today!

Understanding how to manage a child’s stomach ache is crucial. Metro Pediatrics offers same-day appointments for children feeling unwell. New patients can easily schedule an appointment by calling or booking online.

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Vomiting in children can be caused by various factors such as infections, food poisoning, motion sickness, or other medical conditions. It is important to monitor the child’s symptoms and ensure they stay hydrated. If vomiting persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is always recommended to seek medical advice.

Key facts

• Babies may vomit small amounts of food after feeding, which differs from vomiting.
• Viral gastroenteritis is a common cause of vomiting in children.
• Excessive vomiting can lead to dehydration in babies and children.
• Visiting a doctor is necessary in cases of vomiting.
• Providing small amounts of oral rehydration solution or plain water can help maintain hydration levels in a child.
• Other common causes of vomiting in children include food allergies, motion sickness, and infections.
• If your child is vomiting frequently, it is important to monitor for signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, decreased urine output, and lethargy.
• It is important to avoid giving your child solid foods while they are vomiting to prevent further irritation to the stomach.

What is vomiting?

Vomiting is a common symptom in children, often prompting parents to seek medical advice.

When a child vomits, the stomach contents are expelled through the mouth, commonly referred to as vomiting or being sick.

Babies may experience posseting or reflux, which is different from vomiting and involves muscle contractions in the stomach.

Dehydration is a concern when children vomit, as replacing lost fluids adequately is important.

Children may vomit due to various reasons, with viral gastroenteritis being a frequent cause.

Other symptoms that may be related to vomiting in children include:

• Fever
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Irritability

It is important to monitor these symptoms and seek medical attention if they persist or worsen. Vomiting in children can be caused by a variety of factors such as gastrointestinal infections, food poisoning, motion sickness, or underlying medical conditions. A healthcare provider can help diagnose the cause and provide appropriate treatment.

Intussusception (bowel blockage)

Intussusception is a serious condition where one portion of the intestine slides into the adjacent section, causing a blockage that can lead to vomiting, abdominal pain, and bloody stool.

Pyloric stenosis (narrowing of the valve between the stomach and intestine)

Pyloric stenosis is a condition common in infants where the opening between the stomach and small intestine becomes narrow, causing projectile vomiting in newborns.

Raised intracranial pressure (skull pressure)

Raised intracranial pressure can result from conditions like head trauma, brain tumors, or infections, leading to symptoms such as headaches, vomiting, and changes in vision or behavior.

It’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly if your child is experiencing persistent vomiting or any concerning symptoms to receive the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Additional Information on Diagnosing the Cause of Vomiting in Children:

In addition to a physical examination and describing symptoms to the doctor, keeping a record of when the vomiting episodes occur, how long they last, and what the child ate or drank before can provide valuable information for diagnosis.

Further tests that may be recommended include blood tests, imaging studies (such as X-rays or ultrasounds), and gastrointestinal procedures like an endoscopy.

It’s important to inform the doctor of any medications or supplements your child is taking, as these can sometimes lead to vomiting as a side effect.

Follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and make adjustments as needed.

Remember to always follow your doctor’s recommendations and ask any questions you may have about your child’s condition.

When should I take my child to the doctor?

For babies under 6 months old or those with underlying health conditions like diabetes or epilepsy, vomiting requires medical attention.

When should I get urgent medical care for my child?

Vomiting poses more significant risks for young babies; immediate medical care should be sought in certain circumstances.

• Babies under 6 months or weighing less than 8kg
• Children under 3 years with 12 hours of vomiting
• Children under 6 years with 24 hours of vomiting
• Children 6 years or older with 48 hours of vomiting

If vomiting persists or is accompanied by concerning symptoms, a visit to the nearest emergency department is recommended.

FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — Use the Service Finder to locate doctors, pharmacies, or hospitals.

It is important to monitor your child’s hydration levels when they are vomiting. Offer small sips of water or an electrolyte solution to prevent dehydration. If your child shows signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, sunken eyes, or decreased urine output, seek medical attention immediately.

Remember to trust your instincts as a parent. If you feel that something is seriously wrong with your child, do not hesitate to seek medical help.

Preventing vomiting in children

While vomiting is a common occurrence in children, there are some preventive measures that can be taken to reduce the chances of it happening:

• Encourage regular handwashing to prevent the spread of viruses that can cause gastroenteritis
• Avoid giving your child spoiled or contaminated food
• Ensure your child is up to date on vaccinations to prevent illnesses that may lead to vomiting
• Teach proper food hygiene practices to your child to reduce the risk of food poisoning
• Avoid exposing your child to people who are sick with contagious illnesses

By taking these preventive measures, you can help reduce the frequency of vomiting episodes in your child and keep them healthy.

Can vomiting in children be prevented?

Gastroenteritis is the leading cause of vomiting in children and is highly contagious. Prevent the spread of gastroenteritis by practicing good hygiene, ensuring food safety, and keeping sick children at home until symptoms subside.

If your child is experiencing specific food-related vomiting, consult with a doctor or dietitian.

Vaccines are available to prevent certain causes of vomiting in children.

Complications of vomiting in children

Regardless of the reason for vomiting, it is crucial to prevent dehydration. Look out for signs of severe dehydration in infants and children, and seek medical attention if necessary.

Signs of severe dehydration may include:

• Decreased frequency of wet diapers
• Dry mouth, tongue, lips
• Sunken eyes
• Restlessness or irritability
• Reduced tear production

In cases of severe dehydration, hospitalization may be necessary for rehydration.

Resources and support

For additional information and support:

• The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne — Kids’ health information
• The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network — Fact sheets

For advice, contact healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to speak with a registered nurse.

Explore more resources through Pregnancy, Birth and Baby.

Source s:

Last reviewed: February 2024

Related pages

• Causes of vomiting
• Vomiting
• Treatment for vomiting
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Search our site for

• Gastroenteritis – Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines, resulting in symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
• Abdominal Pain – Abdominal pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including indigestion, constipation, or more serious conditions like appendicitis or gallstones.
• Nausea – Nausea is a feeling of discomfort in the stomach that often precedes vomiting. It can be caused by motion sickness, food poisoning, or pregnancy.

Need more information?

Find more comprehensive information on this subject with reliable information sources.

Gastroenteritis factsheet | The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network

Gastroenteritis, commonly known as gastro, is prevalent among infants and children, resulting in cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Dehydration & fluid loss: children & teens | Raising Children Network

Dehydration can be caused by various factors. Combat it by ensuring your child receives adequate fluids.

Gastroenteritis or gastro: kids & teens | Raising Children Network

Children often suffer from gastroenteritis. It is important to keep them hydrated.

Gastroenteritis | Children’s Health Queensland

Learn how to care for a child with gastroenteritis and when to seek help.

Diarrhoea in children and teenagers | Raising Children Network

Diarrhea is a common occurrence in children. Focus on fluid intake during the recovery period.

Vomiting in children

Vomiting is a frequent symptom in children and often indicates an infection. Educate yourself on how to manage vomiting in children.

Vomiting in children and teenagers | Raising Children Network

Dehydration poses a significant risk with vomiting in children. Consult a GP if you have concerns.

Diarrhoea in babies and children

Diarrhea in children is prevalent. Learn how to prevent dehydration.

Norovirus | Health and wellbeing | Queensland Government

Noroviruses can lead to gastroenteritis, accompanied by symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach pain, and vomiting.

Diarrhoea – Better Health Channel

Acute diarrhea in babies and young children can be severe.

Ketogenic diets for drug-resistant epilepsy | Cochrane

Evidence suggests that KDs can be effective in treating drug-resistant epilepsy in children.

Food Protein Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES) – Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA)

Understand Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES).

Understanding and Assessing ‘Failure’ to Thrive | Ausmed

Failure to thrive is characterized by inadequate weight gain in children under two years old.

Causes and Management of Bleeding in Early Pregnancy | Ausmed Article

Learn about vaginal bleeding in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Gastroenteritis Symptoms, Spread and Prevention | Ausmed

Gastroenteritis is an infection or inflammation of the digestive system, often contagious.

What is Dengue? | Ausmed

Dengue is a virus transmitted by mosquitoes that causes fever. It is spread by two types of mosquitoes: Dengue mosquito (Aedes aegypti) and Asian Tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus).

Read more on Ausmed Education website

Food Poisoning (Foodborne Illness) | Ausmed

Food poisoning affects over 4 million Australians annually, resulting in 31,000 hospitalizations and 86 deaths each year. Despite these alarming figures, many cases are preventable.

Read more on Ausmed Education website

Meningococcal Disease | Ausmed

Meningococcal disease is rare, affecting only 0.8 individuals per million in Australia. Despite its rarity, it has a 5 to 10% mortality rate and necessitates immediate treatment.

Read more on Ausmed Education website

Lithium | Pathology Tests Explained

This test measures lithium levels in the blood. Lithium is utilized to treat bipolar disorder, a mental health condition.

Read more on Pathology Tests Explained website

Crohn’s Disease | Ausmed

Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition causing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. It commonly affects the small intestine or colon and falls under the category of inflammatory bowel disease.

Read more on Ausmed Education website

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• Preventing vomiting

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