Stomach aches and gas are common problems in children and usually resolve within a day or two. Identify any foods that may be causing the sensitivity and eliminate them from your child's diet. Offer your child the comfort of a warm water bottle and herbal tea, and watch him for signs of serious illness. Occasionally a stomach ache may signal a serious condition such as an infection. If your child's symptoms don't resolve in a day or two, consult a physician.
Causes
A severe stomach ache with gas is usually associated with something your child ate. Dairy products are a common culprit. Stomach pain may occur soon after your child consumes milk or another dairy product, or continue sporadically throughout the day. Constipation is also a frequent cause of stomach ache in children, although it may or may not be accompanied by excessive gas.
Symptoms
In determining the cause of the stomach ache, watch for other symptoms and keep a food journal to determine if the pains coincide with the consumption of certain foods. A child with fever or diarrhea probably has stomach flu. If your child passes hard, dark stools or only passes stools every few days, he may be constipated.
Treatment
First, eliminate dairy products, spicy foods and processed foods that are high in fat and sugar. Switch to a mild diet of cooked vegetables and fruits, broths and pasta or rice for a few days to see if symptoms improve. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water, diluted fruit juices or diluted herbal teas to prevent dehydration. Ginger, mint or chamomile teas can soothe an upset stomach, according to Dr. Jerry Rubin, co-author of "Naturally Healthy Kids," but sodas are off-limits. Place a warm water bottle on your child's tummy and offer an antacid if recommended by your pediatrician. If your child is constipated, offer prune juice or pureed prunes to loosen stools.
When to Call the Doctor
Severe stomach ache can occasionally be a sign of a more serious illness. Call your doctor immediately if your child is inconsolable because of the pain, or if the stomach ache is accompanied by a fever above 102 degrees Fahrenheit. Call if you notice blood in the stools, or if your child appears dehydrated, has rapid breathing or significant back pain.
References
- Ask Dr. Sears.com: Abdominal Pain, Chronic
- "Naturally Healthy Kids"; Jerry Rubin, et al.; 2006
