Abdominal pain in children

Children often complain of stomach pain. It is one of the most common reasons parents take children to their doctor or the hospital emergency department. Stomach pain can be hard to diagnose. The doctor will ask you questions then examine your child. Sometimes a problem may be quite obvious, so no tests are needed. 

Many children with stomach pain get better in hours or days without special treatment and often no cause can be found. Sometimes the cause becomes more obvious with time and treatment can be started. If pain or other problems persist, see your doctor.

Causes of abdominal pain in children

There are many health problems that can cause stomach pain for children, including:

·         bowel (gut) problems – constipation, colic or irritable bowel

·         infections – gastroenteritis, kidney or bladder infections, or infections in other parts of the body like the ear or chest

·         food-related problems – too much food, food poisoning or food allergies

·         problems outside the abdomen – muscle strain or migraine

·         surgical problems – appendicitis, bowel obstruction or intussusception (telescoping of part of the gut)

·         period pain – some girls can have pain before their periods start

·         poisoning – such as spider bites, eating soap or smoking.

Repeat attacks of stomach pain

Some children suffer repeat attacks of stomach pain, which can be worrying for parents. Often, no health problem can be found.

Children may feel stomach pain when they are worried about themselves or people around them. Think about whether there is anything that is upsetting your child at home, school or kindergarten, or with friends. See your local doctor for advice. A referral may be needed to a paediatrician (a doctor who specialises in children).

Treatment for abdominal pain in children

Your child’s treatment will depend on what the doctor thinks is causing their pain. Treatment may be as simple as sending your child home with advice to rest, take fluids and eat a bland diet. Other treatment options include hospital admission and surgery.

Taking care of your child with abdominal pain

General suggestions on easing the pain include:

·         Make sure your child gets plenty of rest.

·         Help your child drink plenty of clear fluids such as cooled boiled water or juice.

·         Do not push your child to eat if they feel unwell.

·         If your child is hungry, offer bland food such as crackers, rice, bananas or toast.

·         Place a hot water bottle or wheat bag on your child’s tummy or run a warm bath for them. Take care not to scald yourself or your child.

·         Give paracetamol if your child is in pain or is miserable. Remember that doses for children are often different to those for adults, so check the packet carefully for the right dose. Avoid giving aspirin.