Stomach cramps are a common childhood ailment caused by a variety of factors. While the root cause is often difficult to pinpoint, there are several remedies available to help ease the abdominal pain that comes with cramps. If these fail to improve the pain, or if pain is sharp or sudden, it is important to seek medical attention.
Constipation Cramp Relief
When a child suffers from constipation-related stomach cramps, the pain may be intermittent throughout the day. Children with constipation will have infrequent bowel movements, take more than 10 minutes to pass a stool, and when it does pass, it is often large. Parents with constipated children can provide immediate relief by inserting a glycerin suppository or an enema such as Baby Fleet if the pain is severe. To prevent future constipation, AskDrSears.com recommends adding fiber and fluids to the diet, along with natural laxatives such as flax oil or psyllium husks.
Lactose Intolerance or Allergy Cramps
Although there is a difference between being lactose intolerant and having a milk protein allergy, both conditions cause stomach cramps, gas, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Although worse after eating dairy, the pain can come and go throughout the day. A warm compress and gentle belly rub can help ease gas pain in the short term. Over the next few days, try eliminating dairy from the diet, according to Parenting.com, and substitute lactose-free milk and cheese to see if there is any symptom improvement. If symptoms do subside, talk with your doctor about allergy testing to determine if your child has a milk allergy.
Stomach Flu Cramps
Fever, diarrhea, vomiting and stomach cramps are the chief symptoms of gastrointestinal illnesses caused by a virus and commonly referred to as a "stomach bug" or "stomach flu." The biggest concern with stomach flu is the chance for dehydration. It is therefore important to push liquids as much as possible and be alert for signs of dehydration. While waiting for the virus to run its course, treat stomach cramp pain with acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Parents should following their child's cue regarding solid foods, according to BabyCenter.com. If a child's appetite is minimal, it is OK to stop solid foods until the stomach cramps and other symptoms subside.
