When your child complains of a bellyache

It is fairly common for children, under 11, to have abdominal pain.  According to Yahoo! Health, 1 out of 3 kids will see a doctor for abdominal pain by the time they reach 15 years old. However, only a few are diagnosed with serious problems.

So, how do you know if your child’s bellyache is serious?  And when should you take him or her to the doctor?  There are several reasons children complain of bellyaches.  Pain can be caused by an injury to the abdomen or a sickness, like the flu or urinary tract infection (UTI). Other illnesses such as ear infections or strep throat can also be culprits.  More serious problems like appendicitis, intestinal problems or lead poisoning can also bring about stomach pain.  Menstrual periods can cause pain in the abdominal as well.

It’s easier to know when an older child is having abdominal pain than a toddler or baby.  Babies tend to become fussy and pull their legs to their stomach. Their eating habits can sometimes change.  

Children, generally ages 4 to 11, can have reoccurring belly pain called recurrent abdominal pain (RAP). Just make sure they continue with normal activity and eat regularly (no spicy or dairy foods which may trigger the belly pain).

How do I know when my child needs medical attention?

Call 911 if your child:

• Goes into shock (this can happen after an injury, serious illness or bleeding),
• Is severely dehydrated,
• Having breathing difficulties - moderate to severe

Watch for these other symptoms

If your child develops one or more of these symptoms, you may want to see a physician:

• fever
• vomiting
• complaining of pain while urinating or problems with urination
• diarrhea
• problems with breathing
• colic
• baby that is excessively crying
• pain increases or becomes localized
• there’s no relief after 24 hours
• the child’s pain increases when you press on his or her stomach
• the child’s stomach appears swollen or feels hard
• pain comes more often or gets worse

If you feel something just isn’t right, then listen to your gut-feeling and take your child to the doctor. 

Home treatments for when it’s just a bellyache

There are some home treatments you can try that might provide some relief. Have your child follow these in order.

1. Rest - after 30 minutes the belly pain should subside
2. Sip clear liquids like water, broth, tea, clear fruit juice diluted with water
3. Have your child try to pass a stool
4. Make sure to only give your child several small meals, rather than 2-3 large meals
5. Try dry foods like crackers or toast.  Applesauce or gelatin can also help. Refrain from spicy foods or anything with caffeine until 48 hours after symptoms are gone.
6. No medication unless a doctor has seen your child - this could make it worse or mask it

To help prevent abdominal pain in children, make sure they have regular bowel movements and feed them nutritional meals. These home treatments are not to keep you from seeking medical attention if your child’s abdominal pain is severe.  Listen to what your gut is telling you to do. 

Source:

Health.yahoo.com, Abdominal Pain, Age 11 and Younger, retrieved on October 3, 2008 from http://health.yahoo.com/other-other/abdominal-pain-age-11-and-younger/healthwise–abpn10.html 

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