As a parent, few things are more distressing than hearing your child complain of stomach pain. It’s one of the most common reasons children are brought to HealthPark Pediatrics. The good news is that in many cases, stomach pain in children is mild and resolves on its own. However, understanding the common causes of abdominal pain and knowing when to seek medical care can help you manage your child’s health more effectively.
Understanding Stomach Pain in Children
Stomach pain, also known as abdominal pain, can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. It may come on suddenly (acute abdominal pain) or develop gradually and persist over time (chronic abdominal pain). Kids may describe the pain as a belly ache, stomach cramps, or sharp abdominal pain.
Before diving into specific conditions, it’s important to remember that kids sometimes have difficulty describing their symptoms. They may point to their tummy, even if the pain originates elsewhere. Understanding the types of abdominal pain and observing other symptoms can help narrow down potential causes.
1. Constipation
Constipation is a very common cause of stomach pain in children. It happens when bowel movements become infrequent or hard to pass. Children with constipation may experience abdominal cramps, lower abdominal pain, or colicky pain. They might also complain of gas or stomach cramps.
Signs to watch for include:
- Fewer than three bowel movements per week
- Straining during bowel movements
- Hard or lumpy stools
- Abdominal discomfort
Constipation may be caused by a diet low in fiber, dehydration, or changes in routine. It can usually be treated at home with increased fluids, fiber-rich foods, and over-the-counter remedies, but consult your pediatrician if the pain is prolonged or there are other symptoms.
2. Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)
Another common cause of stomach pain is the stomach flu, or viral gastroenteritis. This infection affects the digestive system and causes symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain.
Stomach flu typically resolves independently within a few days, but parents should monitor for signs of dehydration and difficulty breathing. Encourage your child to drink small amounts of fluids frequently and avoid fried or greasy foods until they recover.
3. Food Allergies and Intolerances
Food allergies or intolerances can lead to stomach pain in children. Dairy, gluten, and certain artificial additives are among the top culprits.
Kids with food allergies may experience abdominal cramps, diarrhea, bloating, or even severe pain after eating trigger foods. If food allergies are suspected, your pediatrician may suggest an elimination diet or refer you to a specialist. Keeping a food diary can also help identify problem foods.
4. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and Kidney Stones
UTIs and kidney stones are less common but significant causes of abdominal pain. Pain from a UTI often presents as lower abdominal pain or a dull ache in the lower left abdomen or lower right side. Other symptoms may include frequent urination, a burning sensation while urinating, or fever.
Kidney stones can cause very bad abdominal pain, back pain, or pain that radiates toward the groin. Some children may also experience nausea or vomiting.
5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Chronic abdominal pain may signal an underlying condition like inflammatory bowel disease, which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Symptoms may include progressive abdominal pain, weight loss, fatigue, blood in the stool, and poor appetite.
If your child experiences abdominal pain diagnosed as IBD or presents symptoms that suggest it, they may be referred to a pediatric gastroenterologist. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
6. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is another digestive condition that can cause chronic abdominal pain in kids. It often results in mild abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, such as alternating constipation and diarrhea.
Stress, diet, and lack of routine can all trigger IBS symptoms. Your provider may recommend dietary adjustments and stress management techniques to ease mild abdominal pain.
7. Appendicitis
Appendicitis causes acute pain in the lower right abdomen and is considered a medical emergency. If untreated, the appendix can burst, leading to serious complications.
Look for symptoms like:
- Sudden, sharp abdominal pain starting around the belly button and moving to the lower right side
- Fever or rectal bleeding
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
If your child has these symptoms, seek medical care immediately.
8. Menstrual Cramps and Gynecological Causes
In adolescent girls, stomach pain may be linked to menstrual cramps or other issues involving the reproductive organs. While menstrual cramps are common, severe pain or irregular periods should be evaluated by a pediatrician or adolescent gynecologist.
9. Stress and Anxiety
Emotional stress can also manifest as physical symptoms, particularly abdominal discomfort. School pressures, family changes, or social issues may lead some children to experience abdominal pain without any identifiable medical condition.
Monitoring patterns and talking openly with your child can help determine if emotional well-being is contributing to their symptoms.
When to Call the Doctor
While most cases of mild abdominal pain are harmless, it’s important to know when stomach pain could indicate a more serious condition. Contact HealthPark Pediatrics if your child has:
- Pain that doesn’t improve or gets worse
- Pain in your abdomen that wakes them up at night
- Pain severe enough to prevent daily activities
- Fever or rectal bleeding
- Vomiting that lasts more than 24 hours
- Blood in the stool or dark-colored stools
- Pain prolonged poor appetite or unexplained weight loss
- Difficulty breathing, contact the doctor right away
A physical exam and your child’s medical history can help determine the cause. Sometimes, imaging or lab tests may be needed to confirm a diagnosis.
Diagnosing and Treating Abdominal Pain
To diagnose abdominal pain, your provider may ask your child to describe pain location and intensity. They’ll consider the presence of other symptoms and conduct a physical exam. Sometimes, they may check for gastrointestinal and liver disease, conduct urine tests, or use imaging studies like ultrasounds.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For example:
- Constipation may be treated with dietary changes and hydration
- Stomach flu requires fluids and rest
- Appendicitis may need surgery
- Kidney infection or kidney stones may need antibiotics or hospitalization
The goal is to ease mild abdominal pain and prevent complications. Kids may sometimes be referred to a specialist, like someone from the Jefferson Digestive Diseases Network.
Final Thoughts
Kids frequently experience abdominal pain, but most cases resolve with rest, hydration, and care at home. Knowing the common causes of stomach pain and observing for other symptoms can help guide you in the right direction.
If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to contact HealthPark Pediatrics. We’re here to help your child feel better and to support your family every step of the way.
