One of the most common illnesses we see here in Omaha at Nebraska Home Pediatrics & Parents is abdominal pain in children. No matter how big or small your kid is, it can be scary to see them experience stomach pain — especially if you’re not sure what is causing it.
Child stomach pain causes can range from mild to severe, and require different levels of treatment. We can help you understand a little bit more about what might be causing your child’s tummy ache, and guide you in the steps you need to take.
What is abdominal pain in children?
Abdominal pain refers to discomfort occurring in the general belly area, in the space between your child’s pelvis and chest. Though “abdominal pain” is a phrase that is commonly used, there are actually different areas of the abdominal region that can experience pain, and those areas signal different issues.
Areas and Types of Abdominal Pain in Children
- Pain around the belly button region
- Pain in the lower right part of the abdomen
- Pain in the left side of the abdomen
- Pain in the upper abdomen
Common Causes of Abdominal Pain
Due to the wide range of child stomach pain causes, it’s important to pay attention to signs and symptoms other than just the abdominal pain. The location and severity of pain, paired with symptoms like fever and vomiting can help you determine what kind of stomach issue your child is experiencing.
Digestive Issues
One of the most common causes of abdominal pain we see in children here at NHP&P is from constipation. This is typically caused by a lack of fiber, fruits, vegetables, and water, and can be remedied through diet changes and an increase in hydration.
Gas pain can happen to infants and children alike. In older children, it is typically caused by the type of diet mentioned above. In infants, however, it can be caused by swallowing air during eating or crying.
Infections
Another common cause of abdominal pain in children is illness from a viral or bacterial infection. Stomach flu (gastroenteritis) causes vomiting and diarrhea, and is usually accompanied by nausea.
Other infections that can cause abdominal pain include urinary tract infections (affecting the lower abdomen and bladder area), and strep throat. These types of abdominal pain are typically associated with a fever and other associated pain (during urination with a UTI or sore throat with strep throat).
Food Related Problems
Other food-related problems (that are not indigestion) can occur when your child has an allergy or intolerance to a certain food, specifically milk or dairy. If you notice recurring stomach pain when your child eats certain foods, it is a good idea to keep a log and let your provider know.
Emotional Upset
Sometimes children get a tummy ache when they are feeling emotionally upset about something. It’s hard to determine when this is the case, but it is often only a stomach ache — no other complaints of fever, urinary or throat pain, vomiting, or flu-like symptoms.
More Serious Causes
In some cases, abdominal pain can be a result of a more serious issue. Severe, constant pain that begins suddenly around the belly button and settles into the lower right side of your child’s abdomen can be a sign of appendicitis. Other severe causes include pancreatitis, Crohn’s disease, or irritable bowel syndrome.
It’s important to remember, however, that most abdominal pain in children is mild and easily treatable. If you’re worried about more serious issues, be sure to talk with your provider.
When to call your primary pediatric care provider in Omaha
Most cases of abdominal pain in children go away after a few hours without any treatment at all. However, if the pain continues at the same level, or gets worse over the course of 3-5 hours, we recommend bringing them in to be seen. If your child has a fever or severe sore throat, or you notice an extreme change in their energy levels or appetite, please call us right away.
Preventing abdominal pain
There’s no guaranteed way to prevent abdominal pain in kids, but there are some methods you can use to lessen the chances, including:
- Encouraging a varied diet that is high in fiber and produce
- Encouraging proper hydration through drinking enough water
- Encouraging open communication about fears and stress
FAQ: Abdominal Pain in Children
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Is abdominal pain in children usually serious?
Typically, no. Most of the child stomach pain causes we see here in Omaha are mild, digestive in nature, and go away after a few hours.
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Can stress or anxiety cause stomach pain?
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What foods can help ease stomach upset?
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When should I take my child to the ER?
Book an Appointment Today
If you’re in the Omaha area and concerned about your child’s abdominal pain, call our office today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced, friendly providers.