Stomach aches in toddlers are a common problem, although many toddlers lack the language skills to adequately describe their pain. Watch for other symptoms, such as diarrhea, vomiting, fever or constipation that may accompany stomach ache when considering remedies. Consult your pediatrician if stomach pain becomes severe, there is blood in the stool, or if your child repeatedly vomits and seems dehydrated, according to Jerry Rubin, M.D., in "Naturally Healthy Kids."
Staying Warm
Send your toddler to bed with a warm water bottle to place on his stomach. The weight of the bottle, as well as the warmth, can relieve a stomach ache caused by indigestion or gas, which is the most common cause of stomach ache when no diarrhea or vomiting is present, according to Dr.Sears.com. Try a warm bath and gently rub your toddler's tummy. A warm bath can get bowels moving if the problem is constipation.
Dietary Changes
Remove dairy products from your child's diet and offer clear liquids, broth or crackers until the pain subsides. If you suspect constipation, characterized by hard, infrequent stools, offer diluted prune juice, peaches or pears to soften the stools. Diluted herbal teas, such as chamomile or mint tea, can soothe an upset stomach.
If your child is experiencing chronic abdominal pain, start keeping a log of when the pain occurs and symptoms. Signs of lactose intolerance include stomach pains after eating dairy, diarrhea, and gas pains, according to Dr. Sears.com. Try removing dairy products from the diet for a few days and see if the symptoms improve.
Over the Counter Medicines
Give your toddler simethicone drops to relieve gas pain, or antacids for indigestion or heartburn. Glycerin suppositories offer quick relief from constipation. Talk with your pediatrician, though, before giving any over-the-counter medications and follow all packing directions carefully.
Distraction
Stomach aches caused by gas or indigestion usually subside within a few hours. In the meantime, distraction can help ease your toddler's discomfort. Encourage your child to rest as much as possible, but read stories, play simple games or watch a movie to distract him. Contact your pediatrician, though, if the stomach pain lasts for more than a few hours or is accompanied by severe diarrhea, vomiting or fever.
References
- Ask Dr. Sears.com: Abdominal Pain
- Ask Dr. Sears.com: Chronic Abdominal Pain
- "Naturally Healthy Kids"; Jerry Rubin MD, et al.; 2006
