Kids & Stomach Pain

Stomach pain in children causes distress for parents and children. Distress for children comes because they feel poorly; for parents, it's because they often don't know what is wrong. There are multiple reasons children experience abdominal pain, from minor to severe. It's important to look at the child's health history and his or her symptoms to understand possible illnesses and treatment.

Non-serious

• The most common reason for abdominal pain is the stomach flu or food poisoning. Although symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea or fever make the child uncomfortable, they are not life threatening and will eventually pass. For the stomach flu and food poisoning, keeping children hydrated and comfortable is important.

  According to pediatrician Dr. Sears on his website Ask Dr. Sears, gas is the most common cause of abdominal pain. In this case, the child experiences sharp pain and cramping without other symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea.

  Constipation presents as severe and, often, chronic abdominal pain. The pain is described as being near the belly button. The Health Child by Partners in Pediatrics defines constipation as "a hard-textured stool or a stool that is difficult or painful to pass." While not serious, if it's not treated, constipation can lead to other illnesses like hemorrhoids and urinary tract infections.

  Often overlooked as a cause of abdominal pain is food intolerance. Dairy, wheat, nuts and eggs often cause an intolerance which presents as a stomach ache. The best way to determine an intolerance is by eliminating the food in question and see if the stomach aches improve.

  Finally, a huge cause for stomach pain is stress and anxiety. Parents must look at the situations in which the stomach aches occur. Keep a log of what makes the pain worse or better. Careful documentation might determine if the sickness is related to a stressful situation such as homework or chores. Talk to your doctor about possible behavioral treatments--rewards, therapy and so forth.

Serious

• The most serious abdominal pain is from appendicitis. Appendicitis starts as a moderate discomfort in the belly button according to Dr. Sears. However, unlike the non-severe illnesses mentioned above, appendicitis pain moves down to the lower right side of the stomach and increases in intensity. Look for a gradual increase in pain, located around the right lower abdomen, a fever and even a refusal to walk. It's essential to seek medical care if you suspect your child has appendicitis.

Treatment for Non-Serious Pain

• The best remedy for non-serious abdominal pain is usually lots of rest and more fluids. Try a warm water bottle on the stomach area to relax and relieve discomfort. Consider a warm bath also. Teas such as ginger, mint or chamomile may also soothe stomach pain.

  Lack of fiber and/or water are the most common causes of constipation. Therefore, Partners In Pediatrics recommends increasing fluid intake such as fruit juice--prune and apple. Also, the pediatricians suggest including more fiber in liquids such as Metamucil in juice, or fiber in the diet. Vegetables, popcorn and bran are three good fiber foods. Limit dairy products and bananas as these can be constipating.

Treatment for Serious Pain

• Call your pediatrician if your child experiences unbearable pain, particularly in the lower part of the abdomen. If there is blood in the stool or vomit, rapid breathing, back pain, pain with urination or loss of consciousness, these are symptoms for which you must seek immediate medical care.

Conclusion

• According to Partners In Pediatrics, "Abdominal pain may be caused by infection, trauma, obstruction, constipation, colic, emotional upset, food allergies, menstrual cramps, motion sickness and urinary tract infections, to name just a few." Obviously, there are a large variety of causes for abdominal pain from stress to appendicitis. Most important to remember is that if the pain is serious and increasing, get immediate medical help.