Causes Of Abdominal Pain In Children: Identifying The Reason
Abdominal pain, or stomach ache, is one of the most common problems in children. While children won’t understand the difference, the causes of abdominal pain in children can vary. Usually, it is caused by things like indigestion or gas and is nothing to worry about. In most cases, children recover from abdominal pain within a few hours.
However, if it does not go away within a few hours, it is advisable to take your child to a doctor. In this blog, we will help you identify the causes of abdominal pain in children, what causes them, and how to manage them.
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A] Common Non-Serious Causes
1. Gas And Bloating
Gas and bloating can happen when children intake too much air, either during eating or due to anxiety. This excess of air in the stomach can make them feel uncomfortable and distressed. Training the kid to better control their breathing with exercises can eliminate this.
2. Constipation
Constipation is a common problem in children who are potty trained to use the washroom on their own. It is a common problem in children who do not feel comfortable using the toilet and can become a lifelong problem if not treated. A fiber-rich diet, exercise, and OTC medicines can help to manage constipation.
3. Indigestion
Indigestion is one of the common causes of stomach pain in children. It can be caused by not chewing the food properly, not moving enough after eating, or being intolerant to a particular food. A brisk walk after eating and eliminating certain foods from the diet are the best solutions.
4. Overeating
Overeating stretches the stomach lining and puts pressure on the stomach walls, which causes pain. Educate the kid about portion control and how to reduce overeating.
B] Gastrointestinal Infections & Disorders
1. Viral Gastroenteritis
Viral gastroenteritis is a stomach infection caused due to eating or drinking contaminated water. Gastroenteritis is a type of flu that causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and severe stomach pain. Drinking clean water and complete rest is crucial for the treatment. Visit a doctor immediately and give the prescribed medicine to the child.
2. Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections are caused due to contaminated food and water. Harmful bacteria can cause food poisoning in children, which leads to abdominal pain. Prescribed medicine, antibiotics, and safe drinking water are the best treatment options.
3. Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is caused by an allergic response to gluten. The immune system attacks the gut and damages the small intestine leading to severe stomach aches. Prescribed medicines are useful for quick pain relief, and the child should avoid eating gluten to prevent it.
4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Genetic or environmental factors that cause an overactive gut immune system can cause chronic inflammation and pain in the digestive tract. Medication and dietary changes are the best solutions.
C] Urinary Tract Issues
1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be caused when gut bacteria enter the urinary tract. Burning sensations while peeing and abdominal pain are some of the common symptoms of UTI. Parents must book an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible if they suspect UTIs.
2. Kidney Stones
Kidney stones create a blockage in the urinary tract and also the digestive system. These are severe causes of stomach pain and must be diagnosed and medically treated as soon as possible.
3. Bladder Infections
Children are susceptible to frequent bladder infections that irritate the bladder, cause a frequent urge to urinate, and severe discomfort. These are common factors responsible for abdominal pain in kids. Proper diagnosis and antibiotics for preventing it from growing further are crucial.
4. Urinary Reflux
Urinary reflux can lead to bladder infections and UTIs if not treated in time. It is a potential cause of abdominal pain in children, especially infants. Visit a doctor at the earliest opportunity for diagnoses and treatment.
D] Respiratory Causes
1. Pneumonia
Pneumonia affects the lungs and can spread to the diaphragm, which can cause abdominal pain. Extensive coughing and sneezing can further contribute to abdominal pain in children. Prescribed medications along with a warm environment help to treat it.
2. Bronchitis
Bronchitis causes persistent and forceful coughing, which puts pressure on the abdominal muscles. Proper rests and medication are crucial for complete recovery.
3. Asthma-Related Pain
Asthma is a serious condition that causes immense coughing and breathlessness, which puts pressure on the chest and abdomen. Asthma attacks are very serious and can affect the diaphragm. Treating asthma is the only way to reduce abdomen pain.
E] Musculoskeletal Causes
1. Muscle Strain And Sprains
Children often disregard their safety and well-being while playing or doing fun activities. Too much pressure from excessive physical activity can cause muscle strains and sprains. Proper rest, ice packs, and pain relief medicines are essential to the treatment for abdominal pain in children.
2. Abdominal Muscle Spasms
Abdominal spasms, better known as cramps, occur when the muscles in the stomach or intestine contract. Various issues cause muscle spasms in the abdomen and nearby regions. Make the child drink an adequate amount of water and fluids. Rest and diet are just as important for treating abdominal cramps.
3. Costochondritis
Costochondritis is the inflammation of the costal cartilage in the chest area. It affects the ribs and breast bones of the child, and if the lower ribcage is affected by costochondritis, it causes sharp stomach pain in children. For treating the condition, anti-inflammatory medication is recommended, along with rest and physical therapy.
F] Other Factors
1. Psychological Factors
It may not seem very common, but physiological factors like stress and anxiety can affect the gut and cause indigestion and other gut problems. These can lead to abdominal pain and be very discomforting for the child.
2. Food Allergies And Intolerances
Food allergies and intolerances such as gluten allergy, lactose intolerance, and peanut allergy are becoming common in children. These can cause many digestive problems, and one of the few early symptoms of food allergies and intolerances is abdominal pain. The patient should avoid allergic foods at any cost.
3. Menstrual Cramps In Adolescent Girls
Many adolescent girls may begin having their periods, which are accompanied by menstrual cramps. These cramps cause severe pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis and can last for 3 to 4 days. Over-the-counter medications, hot water or ice bags, and lifestyle adjustments might offer relief. If the abdominal pain is severe, parents should take their children to a doctor.
G] Abdominal Pain In Children: Diagnosis And Treatment
- Diagnosing Abdominal Pain In Children
The doctor usually begins the diagnosis of abdominal pain in children by asking for medical history and conducting a physical examination. It is important for the child to feel safe and comfortable with the doctor to get the most accurate information. The doctors usually ask a few engaging questions before starting the diagnosis procedure to make sure the child is not anxious. If the physical exam is not satisfactory, the doctor might suggest conducting medical tests such as urine, stool, blood, X-rays, and ultrasound.
- Seeking Medical Attention And Treatment
Most children get better with time and home remedies; however, if the condition worsens, it is advisable to seek professional help. Seek a pediatric urologist with good credibility to get the best treatment for your child. They will help you understand the symptoms of abdominal pain, what is the root cause and also suggest the best treatment.
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Conclusion
As we have discussed in the above blog, the key causes of tummy aches in children can vary significantly. While abdominal pain is one of the most common problems reported by children, identifying the reason behind the issue and providing the necessary treatment is crucial. If the pain is severe and does not go away within a few hours, parents should not waste any time booking an appointment with a pediatrician.
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