Abdominal pain in children is very common and can have many different causes. Dr Ramnik Mathur, a Consultant Paediatrician in West London, explains the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.
Most causes of abdominal pain in children are not serious. However, abdominal pain can sometimes be a sign of a more concerning underlying condition that requires treatment.
This summary provides an overview of abdominal pain in children, including the symptoms, common causes, and what to do next to manage the condition.
If your child has abdominal pain, you can book an appointment to see me in clinic.
Abdominal pain refers to pain or discomfort that occurs between the bottom of the rib cage and the pelvis.
It is a common complaint in children. Between 10% – 20% of school-aged children complain of recurrent abdominal pain.
Determining the cause of abdominal pain involves taking a full medical history, conducting a physical exam, and may involve diagnostic tests. Treatment depends on the cause but may include medication, dietary changes, probiotics, physical therapy, or rarely, surgery. Lifestyle changes like avoiding trigger foods, practicing stress management, and exercise can also help relieve symptoms.
The main symptom of abdominal pain in children is pain or discomfort that occurs in the stomach area. Associated symptoms may include:
- Bloating or cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Fever
- Change in appetite
- Weight loss
- Blood in stool
There are many possible causes of abdominal pain in children, including:
- Viral infections like stomach ‘flu
- Food poisoning
- Gas and bloating
- Constipation
- Urinary tract infection
- Kidney stones
- Appendicitis
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Intussusception (when part of the intestine folds into itself)
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Peptic ulcers
- Gallbladder problems
- Abdominal migraines
- Menstrual cramps
To diagnose the cause of abdominal pain, I will ask about symptoms and take a medical history. I will usually conduct a physical exam, which may include applying gentle pressure on the abdomen to see if that increases pain. I may send your child for additional diagnostic tests, such as:
- Blood tests
- Stool sample analysis
- Urine tests
- Abdominal X-ray
- Abdominal ultrasound
- CT scan of the abdomen
Treatment depends on the cause of the abdominal pain, but may include:
- Medications like pain relievers, antacids, laxatives, or antibiotics
- Dietary changes like avoiding foods that trigger symptoms
- Probiotic supplements
- Surgery for conditions like appendicitis
Lifestyle adjustments that can help manage abdominal pain in children include:
- Identifying and avoiding trigger foods
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals
- Practicing stress management and relaxation techniques
- Getting regular physical activity
- Drinking plenty of water
- Maintaining a bowel movement routine
- Getting enough rest and sleep
There are many resources available to help parents manage abdominal pain in their child:
- Talk to a paediatrician
- Join an online support group
- Check out educational resources from children’s hospitals
- Enrol your child in counselling or therapy
- Reach out to your child’s school for accommodations
Abdominal pain is very common in children and fortunately is not usually caused by anything serious.
Identifying the cause through medical evaluation and making appropriate lifestyle changes can help manage recurring abdominal pain.
I work closely with both the patent and child to determine if any treatment is needed, and provide treatment and support for children with chronic abdominal pain.
