Stomach Aches

The phrase “my tummy hurts” is all too common among children. While most stomach aches are not serious, it is always good to know when to be concerned and when comfort measures are enough. Most stomach aches are mild and resolve with a little TLC.

Common Causes of Stomach Aches:

• Gas, mild indigestion or over eating
• Constipation or needing to “poop”
• Nervous tummies, “butterflies” especially before school or events
• Stomach bugs, infection, food intolerance or stress

Comfort Measures at Home:

• Small sips of clear fluids (water, broth, Pedialyte)
• Warm heating pad or cuddle
• Light/easy to digest meals (bananas, crackers, toast or soup)
• Gentle rub and encouragement to visit the bathroom
• Distraction, story time, music or rest

When to be Concerned with Acute Stomach Aches:

Always trust your instinct – call the office or schedule an appointment with these Red Flags:

• Severe or worsening pain
• Pain waking them from sleep (child not playing or moving)
• Vomiting especially if unable to keep any fluids down or if there is bile of blood in vomit
• Blood in stool
• High fever, no urine output, dry mouth, or signs of dehydration.
• Right sided belly pain, especially if migrated to the right lower quadrant may indicate appendicitis

Chronic (Lingering) Stomach Aches:

If your child is complaining of stomach aches off and on for weeks, possible reasons are:

• Constipation
• Food sensitivities (lactose, gluten)
• Reflux, IBS/or stress tummy troubles
• Menstrual cramps or other gynecological issues in girls

Helpful Measures with Chronic Stomach Aches:

• Keep a symptom diary (time, location, what they ate what helped and what made the pain worse)
• Encourage, as always, routine of healthy eating, plenty of water, bathroom habits and emotional support
• If symptoms persist your child may need an evaluation by your provider or a specialist.