Abdominal discomfort is a common issue among children, ranging from the upper stomach to the lower abdomen. Although most cases are mild, it’s crucial to recognize when it may indicate a more serious problem. Here’s how to know when to seek medical help for your child’s abdominal pain.

Considerations

When your child complains of stomach pain, identifying the type of pain they are feeling is important. Whether it’s a general ache, cramps, colicky pain, or localized discomfort, each type can point to different causes like a stomach bug, gas, constipation, or organ problems.

• Pay attention to signs of abdominal pain in infants or toddlers, such as increased fussiness, pulling legs towards the belly, or changes in appetite.

Causes

The reasons for abdominal pain in children can vary, with some being minor and others more serious. Keep an eye on your child’s condition to determine if medical attention is necessary. In most cases, the pain is due to non-life-threatening issues like gas, heartburn, or a stomach virus.

• Watch for persistent, worsening, or frequent pain as signs that medical assistance may be needed.

Home Care

Many instances of abdominal pain in children can be managed at home with simple remedies. However, if the pain is severe or prolonged, contacting a healthcare provider is recommended. Encourage your child to rest, stay hydrated, try to have a bowel movement, and consume easily digestible foods if needed.

• Avoid offering foods or drinks that could irritate the stomach.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

If your child’s abdominal pain persists for more than 24 hours, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. In certain emergency situations, immediate medical attention may be necessary, especially if symptoms like blood in stool, severe pain, or breathing difficulties occur.

• Be cautious and seek help if specific symptoms or conditions arise.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

Communicate details about the pain, its duration, location, and any accompanying symptoms with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Consider factors like fever, fatigue, changes in behavior, or digestive problems.

Healthcare providers may ask specific questions to better understand the nature of the pain and may conduct relevant tests for a diagnosis.

Alternative Names

Stomach pain in children; Pain – abdomen – children; Abdominal cramps in children; Belly ache in children

References

References for abdominal pain in children:

• Ashorn M, Mäki M, Ruuska T, Karikoski R. Gastrointestinal symptoms of school-aged children with recurrent abdominal pain. Acta Paediatr. 1988;77(2):281-4.
• Chang L. The role of stress on physiologic responses and clinical symptoms in children with recurrent abdominal pain and irritable bowel syndrome. Semin Pediatr Surg. 2007;16(2):88-93.
• Hyams JS, Burke G, Davis PM, Rzepski B, Andrulonis PA. Abdominal pain and irritable bowel syndrome in adolescents: a community-based study. J Pediatr. 1996;129(2):220-6.

Review Date 7/1/2023

Article reviewed by medical professionals

Proper diet plays a crucial role in managing common gastro-intestinal symptoms in children and young people. Here are some dietary tips to help alleviate these symptoms:

• Avoid foods that are high in fat, grease, and oil as they can exacerbate stomach discomfort.
• Include fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to promote healthy digestion.
• Limit intake of spicy foods and caffeine as they can irritate the stomach lining.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to aid in digestion and prevent constipation.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals to prevent overloading the digestive system.
• Avoid carbonated beverages, as they can cause bloating and gas.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or dietitian to create a personalized dietary plan that addresses your child’s specific gastro-intestinal symptoms. By making smart food choices, you can help alleviate discomfort and improve your child’s overall digestive health.

What is the dietary treatment?

Your doctor might suggest dietary changes to address symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloating. Modifying your fiber, sugar, and caffeine intake can help alleviate these symptoms.

In addition to modifying fiber, sugar, and caffeine intake, your doctor may also recommend avoiding certain trigger foods that can worsen your symptoms. Keeping a food diary can help identify these trigger foods and make it easier to avoid them.

Meal routine

Following a consistent meal schedule can assist in effectively managing digestive symptoms. It is recommended to have regular meals, eat mindfully, and avoid late-night snacking or skipping meals.

Sugars and Sweeteners

Sugar consumption can impact digestive health, leading to bloating, stomach pain, and loose stools. Monitoring sugar intake can help determine individual tolerance levels.

When it comes to fruit, opt for types lower in fructose and limit portions to one per serving, with a maximum of two servings per day (a child-sized portion). It is best to avoid fruit juices, smoothies, and dried fruits.

Avoid excessive consumption of coconut milk/cream and refined sugars. Decrease intake of sweeteners like sorbitol, isomalt, xylitol found in low-calorie beverages, yogurts, candies, and gum.

Vegetables

Some vegetables can cause bloating and gas. Decreasing consumption of these vegetables while increasing intake of beneficial ones can improve overall fruit and vegetable consumption.

Preventing Dehydration in Children

Overconsumption of alcohol can lead to gastrointestinal issues. It is important for children to stay hydrated, but it is recommended to have designated drinking times instead of drinking continuously. Opt for water instead of sugary or caffeinated beverages.

Children should aim to drink six to eight glasses of water daily, with adjustments for age and weather conditions. Additional fluids may be necessary during hot weather or illness.

Promoting Healthy Eating Habits

It is beneficial to include foods rich in fiber in the diet, but it is important to avoid excessive intake. When needed, consider swapping high-fiber foods for refined alternatives.

Fat

Consuming foods high in fat can lead to a slower digestion process, resulting in abdominal discomfort. To ease symptoms, consider reducing the intake of fatty foods such as sausages, burgers, chips, and decadent desserts.

Spicy foods

For some individuals, spicy foods may exacerbate abdominal pain. It may be beneficial to cut back on spicy dishes to determine if symptoms improve.

Do I / Does my child always need to eat like this?

Implementing dietary adjustments can bring relief within a month. If there is no noticeable improvement, it is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional for further assessment.

What if I have questions?

This manual offers general insights on dietary modifications for children. For tailored advice or referrals to a nutritionist, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.

Frequent stomach ache occurrences in children can stem from various sources. If the pain persists, seeking guidance from a healthcare provider is recommended.

Causes of abdominal pain in children

Several health conditions could be behind stomach pain in children, including gastrointestinal issues, infections, food-related concerns, and more. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Repeat attacks of stomach pain

Children facing reoccurring stomach pain could benefit from consulting with a healthcare provider. Emotional stress might play a role; thus, it is important to explore potential stressors.

Appendicitis explained

Appendicitis stands as a prevalent cause of abdominal pain necessitating surgical intervention. If symptoms suggestive of appendicitis arise in your child, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial.

Other possible causes of abdominal pain in children:

• Gas and bloating: Excessive gas in the digestive tract can lead to discomfort and pain in children.
• Constipation: Difficulty passing stool can cause abdominal pain, especially in young children.
• Food allergies: Some children may experience stomach pain due to allergies to certain foods.
• Urinary tract infections: Infections in the urinary tract can also cause abdominal pain in children.
• Stomach flu: Viral infections that affect the stomach and intestines can result in abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

It is important to pay attention to the frequency, severity, and duration of your child’s abdominal pain and seek medical advice if needed.

Diagnosis of abdominal pain in children

In scenarios where the diagnosis is unclear, conducting tests may be necessary to pinpoint the cause of the stomach pain. Healthcare providers should elucidate the test findings and treatment possibilities accordingly.

Treatment for abdominal pain in children

The treatment approach for childhood stomach pain varies based on the underlying trigger. Recommendations may include rest, adequate fluid intake, and following a bland diet. In severe cases, hospitalization or surgical procedures might be necessary.

It is important for parents and caregivers to monitor the child’s symptoms closely and consult a healthcare provider if the pain persists or worsens. Depending on the cause of the abdominal pain, medications such as antacids, antibiotics, or pain relievers may be prescribed.

In cases where the pain is related to digestive issues, dietary changes and probiotics may be recommended. It is essential to follow the healthcare provider’s advice and treatment plan to ensure the child’s well-being and quick recovery.

Taking care of your child with abdominal pain

To alleviate stomach pain, ensuring ample rest, staying hydrated, and offering plain foods when hungry are key. Adjusting the diet as needed can help alleviate discomfort.

It is important to monitor your child’s symptoms and consult a healthcare professional if the pain persists or worsens. Encouraging your child to avoid foods that may trigger the pain, such as spicy or greasy foods, can also help in managing abdominal discomfort.

In addition to diet adjustments, applying a warm compress to the abdomen, practicing relaxation techniques, and ensuring your child gets enough sleep can also aid in relieving stomach pain. If your child is experiencing severe or persistent abdominal pain, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

When to seek urgent medical help for abdominal pain in children

If your child experiences:

• Intense or worsening pain
• Fever or chills
• A pallid, sweaty, or generally unwell appearance
• Persistent vomiting for over 24 hours
• Refusal to eat or drink
• Presence of blood in vomit or stool
• Difficulty urinating or producing less than four wet diapers daily
• Skin rash accompanied by pain
• Any other concerning symptoms

Where to get help

• Your GP (doctor)

Need treatment today?

In situations where immediate non-life-threatening treatment is required for your child and a doctor is not accessible, consider using alternative services:

Moments of stomach discomfort in children can be distressing. Caregivers should be prepared to manage these situations effectively, whether through home remedies or seeking medical attention, to ensure comfort and relief for the child.

Learn how to naturally alleviate stomach discomfort in children and seek professional advice when necessary.

Metro Pediatrics is here to guide you through this common childhood issue with care.

Natural Remedies for Soothing Tummy Aches in Children

Explore natural remedies to address stomach discomfort in children, along with over-the-counter medication options:

Peppermint Tea and Other Home Solutions

Peppermint tea has a reputation for calming digestive issues. Ginger, chamomile, and lemon teas are also beneficial. These teas aid digestion, reduce bloating, and ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties can ease gastrointestinal irritation.

In addition to teas, warm compresses placed on the stomach can help relax muscles and ease discomfort. A gentle stomach massage in a clockwise motion can also help alleviate symptoms.

Dietary Recommendations for Easing Discomfort

During a stomach ache episode, opt for bland, easily digestible foods like the BRAT diet. Bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast are gentle on the stomach and can help alleviate symptoms. Avoid spicy, greasy, or acidic foods, and consider incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt to rebalance gut bacteria.

The Role of Rest and Comfort Measures

Rest is essential for the body to heal, so encourage your child to take it easy and relax. A warm bath can help soothe abdominal pain, and a heating pad placed on the stomach can provide additional comfort. Ensure your child gets plenty of rest and stays hydrated with water and herbal teas.

Hydration and Herbal Remedies

Keeping your child hydrated is key in helping their body recover from a stomach ache. In addition to water, electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water or sports drinks can help replenish lost fluids. Herbal remedies like peppermint oil capsules or chamomile tea can also provide relief.

It’s important to note that while natural remedies can be effective for mild stomach aches, severe or persistent pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Always consult with a doctor if your child’s symptoms worsen or do not improve with home remedies.

When to Consult a Pediatric Healthcare Provider

Recognize situations that warrant consulting a pediatric healthcare provider:

1. Severe, persistent stomach pain
2. Stomach pain accompanied by fever, vomiting, or breathing difficulties
3. Weight loss or reduced appetite in conjunction with stomach discomfort

Guidance on Medication and Professional Advice

Prior to administering new medications, consult a pediatrician. For recurring stomach issues, seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Long-term Solutions for Recurring Stomach Aches

Collaborate with your child’s doctor to address persistent stomach aches effectively. Promptly address symptoms like bloating, blood in stool, or heartburn.

Preventive Measures and Additional Support

Encourage healthy habits to prevent stomach discomfort in children:

1. Maintain a balanced diet
2. Stay hydrated
3. Promote physical activity
4. Teach proper handwashing techniques

Establish a comprehensive emergency contact list for swift medical attention.

Additionally, ensure that your child gets enough sleep to support their immune system and overall well-being. Encourage regular visits to the doctor for check-ups and vaccinations to prevent illnesses. It’s also important to teach your child about food safety and proper food handling to avoid food-related stomach issues.

Serious Stomach Concerns Require Immediate Attention

Ensure a safe play environment for your child. Supervise outdoor activities diligently.

Recognize signs of serious conditions like appendicitis, seeking immediate medical assistance when necessary.

Stress and Anxiety Can Cause Stomach Pain

Addressing stress-related stomach discomfort is important for overall well-being. Stress and anxiety can manifest physically in the form of stomach pain, so it’s crucial to find ways to manage these emotions. One effective way is through open communication with loved ones or a mental health professional. Additionally, practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help alleviate stress and reduce stomach pain.

If stomach pain persists or becomes severe, it is important to consult a pediatrician for further evaluation and support. They can help determine if there are any underlying medical conditions contributing to the discomfort and provide appropriate treatment.

Tummy Aches Can Be a Sign of Underlying Condition

Regularly monitor your child’s digestive health with their pediatrician. For recurring or severe stomach aches, seek medical advice promptly.

Schedule an Appointment Today!

Parents and caregivers should be knowledgeable on treating a child’s stomach ache. Understanding common childhood ailments and symptoms is crucial for providing appropriate care and seeking medical aid when required.

Metro Pediatrics offers same-day appointments for unwell children. New patients can contact 833-PDX-KIDS or schedule their initial wellness visit online.