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Understanding Abdominal Pain in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments | Be Well Medical

Small girl sitting on sofa, arms crossed over stomach, bending forward and wincing in pain

Abdominal pain is a common complaint among children, but it can sometimes be challenging to diagnose. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and potential treatments of abdominal pain in children is essential to determine the best course of action. Let’s look at what parents should know about abdominal pain in children.

Possible Causes of Abdominal Pain in Children

There are many potential causes of abdominal pain in children, ranging from mild to severe. Common causes include indigestion, constipation, gas, food allergies or intolerances, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and appendicitis. If your child has any other symptoms along with abdominal pain—such as fever, vomiting, or diarrhea—you may want to consult a doctor for further diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms Associated with Abdominal Pain in Children

The most common symptom associated with abdominal pain is cramping or sharp pains in the stomach. Other signs that your child may be experiencing abdominal pain include:

Treatments for Abdominal Pain in Children

Treatment for abdominal pain depends on its cause. For example, if your child has a UTI, they may need antibiotics; if they have appendicitis, they will likely need surgery; if they have indigestion, dietary changes may be necessary. If you are unsure what is causing your child’s abdominal pain, it is best to seek medical advice from your doctor or pediatrician, who can provide tailored advice based on their needs.

Abdominal pain is a common symptom experienced by many children and can range from mild to severe, depending on its cause. Parents need to understand possible causes such as indigestion, constipation, gas pains, food allergies/intolerances, and accompanying symptoms to take appropriate action when needed. Suppose you are unsure what is causing your child’s abdominal pain. It is always best to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment options tailored to your child’s needs.

Author
Nichole Shiffler, NMD Dr. Nichole Shiffler is a naturopathic primary care physician and medical director of Be Well Medical Primary Care. Dr. Shiffler focuses her practice on women's and pediatric medicine. Dr. Shiffler also has an extensive history of treating irregular menstrual cycles, thyroid disease, menopause, acne, PCOS, and diabetes. She utilizes nutrition and herbal medicine to deliver an effective treatment plan to her patients. Dr. Shiffler is available for patient care at Be Well Medical Primary Care. Call (480) 219-9900 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shiffler.

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