Stomach pain is commonplace in children, and is a common reason for parents to bring their children to consult a physician. The symptoms could be a sign of an issue that is serious like appendicitis to a harmless issue like constipation. How can you distinguish between a serious illness which requires medical attention or a minor discomfort that the children may be experiencing?
Children aren’t always the best communication skills, especially when it comes to experiencing pain that they’ve never had previously. Let’s examine the most commonly reported causes of stomach pain in children. We’ll also look at what to look for in the indicators of what the root cause of the pain could be, and what to do about it.
What is the cause of stomach discomfort?
It is the body’s way of signals that something is not right. It is important to pay attention to your body whenever you experience pain as it could mean that you should perform some kind of action to alleviate it. This is a vital idea to instill in your children. It can help them feel comfortable telling you about any pain since you may not be able to instantly tell the signs of pain.
If you are suffering from stomach pain, there are many possible causes. These are only one of many possibilities:
Gas:
The pain of gas is extremely common among children of all different ages. The gas is part of the normal part of digestion, however it could cause pain if gas gets blocked or does not move well through the digestive tract. The child’s diet is usually the reason for discomfort. Consuming carbonated beverages as well as sweeteners beans, spicy food dairy products and eating or drinking too fast can result in an rise in the production of gas.
Constipation:
Constipation for adults and kids can be an all-time source of stomach discomfort. Children, however, might not be aware of what constipation means and it may cause stomach pain. If they feel discomfort around the belly button or in the left lower part of their abdomen this could be due to constipation.
The pain is usually colicky. Ask them when the last time they did two numbers in the bathroom, or whether they’ve been having difficulties with bowel movements.
Insomnia:
The result can be stomach pain that your children feels is uncomfortable. Consuming too much of everything such as pizza, fruit or even pizza and even a meal can cause abdominal discomfort. Because children eat fast and don’t realize the consequences of this as they often overeat until their stomachs are actually full. Then they feel discomfort that follows.
Lactose intolerance:
A lot of people are lactose intolerant however, they don’t realize it until they feel stomach discomfort due to eating foods that contain lactose. Lactose is a sugar that is found in dairy products and milk, like cheese and Ice cream. The body produces an enzyme known as lactase, which helps digest lactose correctly, however certain people aren’t equipped with this enzyme. This means they suffer from a condition known as lactose intolerant.
If they consume milk products, they can experience stomach cramps, gas and constipation. If you suspect that your children has an intolerance to lactose and doesn’t realize it, stomach discomfort may be due to drinking dairy products.
Food poisoning:
Nearly suffer from food poisoning each year, and children aren’t immune to being included in this list. Food poisoning is when you consume food that was cooked improperly or food that’s become rotten over time. It can lead to stomach pain and vomiting and diarrhea.
Stomach viruses:
Kids often get stomach-related viruses at daycares, schools or other places that are commonly used. The stomach virus is similar to an illness called a cold virus or flu. It is a virus that is more affecting the stomach than the respiratory system of the upper or sinuses. Stomach pain is typically the first sign of stomach viruses usually followed by diarrhea and vomiting within a matter of 24 hours.
Appendicitis:
It is a cause of stomach discomfort for that you’ll want to take your children to an emergency room immediately. Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, an organ of small size that extends into the colon.
If your children complains of persistent, severe pain on the lower right part of their abdomen, and any movement that is slight creates pain it could be an appendicitis. Although it’s not common for children who are younger than of 5years, appendicitis is more common among teenagers and older children.
The stress factor:
Another common cause of stomach pain is stress. If children or adults in general, are anxious or anxious, abdominal pain may cause. If you or your children is experiencing a frequent stomach ache that does not have an apparent reason the reason could be stress. The best way to address this is to ask them gently whether they’re worried about something, and if they want to discuss it.
With the many different reasons for stomach pain, it’s difficult for parents to determine what kind of treatment or care to provide their children. It is important to determine the root for your children’s stomach discomfort to be able to take them to a physician should they need to.
To look for signs and the best ways to treat symptoms
Children of varying ages exhibit different symptoms that indicate they’re experiencing stomach discomfort. Children and toddlers have a tendency be prone to voice their frustration through crying, making a mess of their faces, and curling up their bodies. Young children can be prone to crying or curling up but they’re typically quick to inform you that they feel pain. Teenagers and older children might be hesitant to admit they feel discomfort, however when they do give an hint, you can ask them more questions to understand the symptoms.
If your children speaks about it, ask them what the duration of discomfort and where it is situated. Stomachaches that are result from gas, or stomach virus typically disappear in less than 24 hours. If abdominal pain lasts for more than 24 hours it is an indication to see the doctor.
You should also be aware of whether you notice that your children has diarrhea or vomiting. suffering from diarrhea. Both of these signs won’t require a visit to the doctor immediately however, vomiting that lasts for more than 24 hours, or diarrhea lasting more than 72 hours suggests there could be an issue that is more serious. If your children’s stool or vomit is stained with blood over a period of time, visit a doctor for medical attention.
At home treatment tips
If your children isn’t showing these symptoms, as well as the pain doesn’t seem to be severe it is possible to manage stomach aches at home. You can try making your children lay down and then put the warmer pads or warm compress over their stomach. It is also possible to gently massage their belly, and give tiny sips of water. These suggestions should alleviate gas or indigestion leading to discomfort.
You may also offer the children a prescription medication that can aid in relieving pain, but always consult with your physician prior to doing this. If your children appears to be experiencing stomach pain that is present and lasts for a few weeks or days, keep a food journal and check for any connection between certain foods and discomfort. It could be a sign of an allergy to a particular food item which is causing the discomfort.