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- Gastroenteritis: This common stomach infection can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting in children.
- Constipation: Difficulty passing stool can lead to abdominal pain in kids.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Infections in the urinary tract can cause abdominal pain, frequent urination, and fever in children.
- Appendicitis: A serious condition that requires immediate medical attention, appendicitis can cause severe abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting.
- Food allergies or intolerances: Certain foods can trigger abdominal pain in children who have allergies or intolerances.
- Intestinal parasites: Parasitic infections can lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss in children.
Additional Important Information:
- Other common causes of abdominal pain in children can include gas, acid reflux, and food allergies.
- If your child’s abdominal pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as fever or vomiting, seek medical attention promptly.
- It is important to teach children proper hygiene practices to prevent stomach infections that can lead to abdominal pain.
- In some cases, abdominal pain in children may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as appendicitis or inflammatory bowel disease, so it is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider:
It is recommended to seek medical attention if your child experiences:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent discomfort
- Signs of illness or unusual behavior
- Concerns regarding your child’s well-being
Belly pain is a common issue among children and infants, located between the ribs and pelvis.
Various factors can trigger abdominal pain, with most cases resolving within a few days.
This article focuses on belly pain in children under 12 years old, but information is available for older children and adults as well.
Characteristics of Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain can:
- Appear suddenly or gradually
- Stay constant or escalate in intensity
- Move or change over time
- Be intermittent in nature
- Range from mild to severe
Monitoring pain patterns and locations can assist in diagnosis.
Children with belly pain may display additional symptoms like:
You might notice signs of discomfort in your baby or young child, such as:
- Crying
- Restlessness
- Preference for stillness
- Decreased activity levels
- Changes in behavior
- Facial expressions indicating pain
Use the online Symptom Checker to assess your symptoms.
Challenges in Identifying Pain in Youth and Infants
Young children and infants may struggle to communicate pain locations or sensations, necessitating simple inquiries.
In addition to the symptoms mentioned, it’s important to monitor for any changes in bowel habits, vomiting, fever, or other unusual or concerning symptoms that may accompany abdominal pain in children.
Multi-Faceted Nature of Abdominal Pain in Children
Belly pain in children can stem from various factors, each with different causes and durations.
Possible sources include constipation and stomach infections.
Gastroenteritis – A Common Cause of Abdominal Pain
Gastroenteritis, commonly known as ‘gastro,’ results from intestinal infections, often viral and highly contagious.
Classic symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and belly discomfort.
Immediate medical attention is vital for young babies exhibiting gastro symptoms.
Food Poisoning and Its Effects
Food poisoning occurs due to improperly handled or processed food, showcasing symptoms similar to gastroenteritis.
Extra care is necessary for young children to prevent dehydration.
Lactose Intolerance and Digestive Issues
Lactose intolerance, involving difficulties in digesting milk sugar, can lead to abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea after dairy consumption.
Temporary lactose intolerance may follow stomach infections, rarely affecting infants.
Colic – Common Infant Condition
Colic is characterized by extended crying spells in infants, a common yet harmless condition.
Although distressing for parents and infants, the cause is typically benign with no serious medical consequences.
Colic episodes often occur in the late afternoon and evening.
Recognizing Abdominal Pain Symptoms
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Increased frequency of urination
- Strong-smelling urine
- Fever
- Vomiting
- General feeling of illness
Signs of Serious Conditions like Appendicitis
Appendicitis, characterized by severe belly pain, requires immediate medical attention to prevent life-threatening complications.
- Pain initially around the belly button that migrates to the lower right abdomen
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Reluctance to move due to pain
Intussusception – A Serious Bowel Condition
Intussusception, involving the telescoping of the intestine, presents a severe condition often leading to bowel obstruction.
- Severe abdominal pain with episodes of distress
- Blood in stools or rectal bleeding
- Vomiting
- Periods of extreme fatigue
Children may seem well between painful episodes.
Hernias – Causes and Complications
Hernias occur when tissue protrudes through weak areas, potentially causing complications if left untreated.
Trapped hernias constitute emergencies necessitating immediate attention to prevent tissue damage.
Indications of a trapped inguinal hernia include:
- Swelling, redness, and pain around the hernia site
- Abdominal discomfort
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating
Testicular Torsion – Urgent Intervention Required
Testicular torsion, characterized by twisting and reduced blood flow to the testicle, demands urgent surgical intervention to save the affected testicle.
Symptoms include sudden scrotal pain, swelling, and elevated testicle, usually accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
Suspected Ingestion of Foreign Objects
Youth may accidentally swallow objects, with most passing naturally through the digestive system.
Button batteries and magnets pose severe risks, necessitating immediate medical attention if ingestion is suspected.
Indications of swallowed objects include:
- Excessive drooling
- Decreased appetite and drinking
- Painful swallowing
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Changes in bowel movements
Diagnosing Abdominal Pain in Children
Identifying the cause of belly pain in children can be tricky and may require further evaluation to determine the underlying issue.
Physicians evaluate pain symptoms, other signs, and medical history during assessments.
In some cases, diagnostic tests may be necessary, although most children do not require testing.
If you have concerns, consult your doctor and use the Question Builder to prepare for your medical visit.
Managing Children’s Abdominal Pain
Most children encounter belly pain at some point, usually without serious underlying problems.
Seek urgent medical attention if your child displays:
- Severe belly pain
- Pain worsens with movement
- Pain interferes with sleep or worsens over time
- Pale, sweaty appearance
- Lethargy
- Groin or testicular pain/swelling (male infants)
- Signs of dehydration
Immediate medical assessment is also necessary for belly pain accompanied by:
- Fever
- Difficulty urinating or discomfort
- Ongoing vomiting or diarrhea
- Unexplained rash that is painful
- Recent abdominal injury
Urgent Symptoms Requiring Hospital Attention
- Green or bloody vomit
- Black or red stool (indicating the presence of blood)
Locate healthcare services using the Service Finder.
Treatment for Abdominal Pain
In most cases, specific treatment is unnecessary, with self-care at home being sufficient.
However, if the abdominal pain is severe or persistent, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may recommend further tests such as blood tests, imaging studies, or a physical examination to determine the underlying cause of the pain. Depending on the cause, treatment options may include medication, rest, dietary changes, or surgery.
It is important to listen to your body and seek medical help if you are experiencing severe or persistent abdominal pain, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition.
Caring for a Child with Abdominal Pain
If your child is experiencing stomach pain:
- Ensure they rest.
- Encourage small, frequent sips of clear fluids.
- Do not force them to eat if they refuse.
- Offer bland foods like crackers, bananas, or toast if they are hungry.
Considerations for Pain Relief
Pain relief medications like paracetamol may be recommended based on your child’s age and weight. Consult a pharmacist for advice.
Avoid antibiotics for issues like viral gastroenteritis.
Use oral rehydration solutions to prevent dehydration.
When Hospital Treatment is Necessary
In some cases, hospital care may include:
- Fluids administered through a nasogastric tube
- Intravenous fluids
- Surgical intervention
- Monitoring for any signs of a more serious condition
Expert Advice for Childcare
For guidance on caring for your child, contact healthdirect at 1800 022 222 or NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria to speak with a registered nurse, 24/7.
Alternatively, call Pregnancy, Birth, and Baby or schedule a video call at 1800 882 436. Services are available daily from 7am to midnight (AET).
Almost all children experience stomach pain at some point, which can occur anywhere between the chest and groin.
Usually, it is not a cause for concern, but at times, it may indicate a more serious issue. Learn when to seek immediate medical care for your child’s belly pain.
In addition to identifying types of belly pain in children, it is important to also consider other symptoms that may accompany the pain. Some red flags to watch out for include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, blood in the stool, and difficulty breathing. If your child experiences any of these symptoms along with belly pain, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
Furthermore, it is essential to pay attention to the timing and duration of the pain. Is it constant or does it come and go? Does it worsen after eating or during certain activities? Keeping a log of these details can help healthcare providers make a more accurate diagnosis.
Remember, every child is different, and it is important to trust your instincts as a parent or caregiver. If you are concerned about your child’s belly pain or if it persists despite home remedies, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.
Potential Causes of Belly Pain in Children
Stomach pain in children can arise from various sources, which may not be alarming but can occasionally be serious. Causes include:
- Air swallowing
- Colic issues
- Acid reflux or heartburn
- Stomach flu or gastroenteritis
- Constipation
- Food allergies or intolerances
- Appendicitis
- Kidney stones
If the pain persists, worsens, becomes more frequent, or is accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical evaluation.
Home Remedies for Mild Abdominal Pain
For mild cases, home remedies may suffice, but consult a healthcare provider if the pain continues or worsens.
Encourage rest, offer clear fluids, promote bowel movements, and avoid irritating foods or certain medications.
Preventive measures include dietary changes and regular physical activity.
When to Seek Medical Help for Abdominal Pain
If stomach pain persists for more than 24 hours, contact a healthcare provider.
Immediate assistance is necessary for infants under 3 months with issues like diarrhea or vomiting, among other symptoms.
Get in touch with a healthcare provider for various symptoms and situations.
What to Expect at Your Office Visit
Have a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider about the location, pattern, and accompanying symptoms of the pain for a thorough assessment.
Be ready to respond to detailed inquiries during the assessment.
Diagnostic tests may be necessary to identify the root cause of the pain.
Alternative Names
Stomach pain in kids; Abdominal pain in children; Abdominal cramps in kids; Stomach ache in children; Pediatric abdominal pain
References
References
Review Date 7/1/2023
Last updated: June 1, 2028. Reviewed by medical professionals.
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## Medicine for Stomach Pain
Medications like sodium bicarbonate, omeprazole, or cimetidine can alleviate discomfort by inhibiting stomach acid production and neutralizing acid. Some medications may also hasten stomach emptying.
Stomach pain is typically caused by excess acid or gas, gastritis, ulcers, reflux, or tainted food. Other causes include infections, NSAID usage, or stress-induced hyperacidity. These conditions may also result in vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, nausea, or a burning sensation in the upper abdomen.
Treatment should be overseen by a gastroenterologist and tailored to the underlying cause. Medications can have side effects such as increased blood pressure, kidney problems, headaches, or cardiac arrhythmia.
## Best Medicine for Stomach Pain
### Sodium Bicarbonate
Neutralizes stomach acid, relieving pain, heartburn, or burning. Take half a teaspoon in water, up to 3 teaspoons a day. Avoid exceeding 2 weeks to prevent rebound acidity.
### Aluminum Hydroxide
Relieves pain, fullness, heartburn, gas, or belching. Take 10 mL suspension as advised by a doctor for a short period.
### Milk of Magnesia
Contains magnesium hydroxide to decrease stomach acid, relieving pain and heartburn. Recommended dosage varies by age and should not be taken by certain groups.
### Simethicone
Aids in alleviating gas-related pain by breaking up bubbles to ease discomfort. Recommended dose is one 40 mg tablet, up to 3 times a day, after meals.
### Omeprazole
Reduces acid production, alleviating pain, burning, or belching. Take as directed for specific stomach issues, like ulcers, under medical supervision. Other similar medications may also be prescribed.
### Cimetidine
Inhibits acid production to reduce pain from ulcers, reflux, or other conditions. Dosage depends on the condition being treated and should be strictly followed.
### Domperidone
Speeds up gastric emptying to relieve delayed emptying-related pain. Usage should be limited to avoid side effects, and dosage varies by age and weight.
### Sucralfate
Forms a protective barrier in the stomach to prevent acid damage. Should be taken as prescribed, with doses varying depending on the condition being treated. Avoid in certain groups.
### Clarithromycin
An antibiotic combined with other medications to treat ulcers or gastritis caused by H. pylori infections. Prescribed by a doctor for specific cases.
Antibiotics should only be taken as prescribed after confirming an infection through symptoms and testing. Learn more about detecting H. pylori symptoms.
How to take: Clarithromycin, amoxicillin, and omeprazole should be taken orally. For adults, take 1 capsule of omeprazole, 2 capsules of amoxicillin, and 1 tablet of clarithromycin in the morning and evening before meals for 1 week or as directed by a doctor.
Antibiotics can cause side effects like diarrhea, vomiting, poor digestion, nausea, abdominal pain, skin reactions, headache, taste changes, and insomnia. They require a doctor’s prescription.
Medication summary
Check out the table of medications for stomach pain relief:
| Medicine | Top Choice | Mechanism of Action | Contraindications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sodium bicarbonate | Quickly soothes pain caused by excess acid | Counteracts surplus stomach acid | Not recommended for kids under 2, pregnant women, individuals experiencing vomiting, or those with alkalosis |
| Aluminum hydroxide | Alleviates indigestion, gastritis, and ulcer discomfort | Works as an antacid and helps with relieving gas | Not recommended for individuals with kidney failure, during pregnancy, for those with gastrointestinal obstruction, or hemorrhoids |
| Magnesium Hydroxide | Relief for Acid and Gas | Helps neutralize acid and has a gentle laxative effect | Not recommended for individuals with kidney disease, during pregnancy, or for children under the age of 2 |
| Cimetidine | Used for ulcers, esophagitis, and heartburn | Works by blocking histamine | Not recommended for individuals with asthma, heart disease, or those receiving dofetilide treatment |
Before beginning any new medications, it is important to consult with your physician or pharmacist and adhere to their instructions.
Home remedies for stomach pain
To help alleviate stomach acidity or inflammation, consider trying natural remedies such as sea buckthorn, mastic, lettuce, dandelion, or mugwort teas in addition to any prescribed treatments. These remedies can be taken 3 to 4 times a day on an empty stomach. Additionally, reducing stress and avoiding foods and drinks like sweets, fats, fried foods, soft drinks, alcohol, and late-night meals can help reduce acid reflux.
Frequently asked questions
– What is the best medication for stomach pain? Antacids or omeprazole are recommended depending on the cause, with simethicone being effective for gas-related discomfort.
– Can multiple stomach medications be taken together? Only under medical supervision, as certain combinations may increase side effects.
– When should one seek medical attention for stomach pain? For severe or persistent pain, along with symptoms such as vomiting blood, black stools, fever, or unexplained weight loss.
– Are home remedies sufficient for treating stomach pain? While they may be effective for mild cases, they are not a substitute for serious conditions like ulcers or infections.
– Is it safe to take medications during pregnancy? Some short-term options are safe, but it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before taking medications like domperidone, sucralfate, and antibiotics.