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What Are the Causes of Pediatric Stomach Pain?

Pediatric stomach pain, which is also referred to as belly ache, stomachache or abdominal pain, is a common condition among babies, toddlers and children. Children with stomach pain may not be able to communicate what is bothering them or what their symptoms are, so parents and caregivers need to pay close attention to the behavior, eating habits and bowel movements of any child under their care. Consider this information derived from the Mayo Clinic, the National Library of Medicine, the Nemours Foundation and the American Academy of Family Physicians about the causes of pediatric stomach pain.

  1. Colic

    • Babies with colic may have symptoms including stomach pain that gets worse in the late afternoon and early evening. Colicky babies may have more stomach pain after having a bottle or nursing, which may be a sign of acid reflux. Stomach pains caused by colic may be reduced by holding the baby up while feeding, stopping often to burp, and making dietary changes in mothers who are breastfeeding.

    Food

    • Children who are allergic to certain foods and consume those foods may develop stomach pain. Intolerances to lactose, gluten and other ingredients may cause stomach pain in children. Children who eat foods high in acid, such as fruit juice, soda and tomato products may develop acid reflux, which can cause stomach pain.

    Gas

    • Children who suffer from excessive gas may have stomach pain. Eating food too quickly or swallowing air when eating may cause a build up of gas that leads to burping and stomach pain. Children who are chronically constipated or hold their bowel movements for long periods of time may also develop stomach pain.

    Infections

    • Children who are infected with viral gastroenteritis, which is also referred to as stomach flu, may experience stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea. Viral infections such as influenza and chickenpox can cause pediatric stomach pain that may last for one week or longer. Bacterial infections such as salmonella can cause pediatric stomach pain, and are commonly spread at childcare centers or through contaminated food.

    Intussusception

    • Babies and toddlers with stomach pain may have a condition called intussusception, which causes a blockage in the intestines that impedes digestion and circulation. Pediatric stomach pain caused by intussusception is intense and has a sudden onset, and the symptoms may flare up and then subside but will recur.

    Medical Disorders

    • Children with certain types of medical disorders may have stomach pain. Bowel disorders including irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease and diverticulitis may cause pediatric stomach pain. Children who have sickle cell disease or are born with or develop a hernia may have persistent stomach pain.

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