One of the most common health-related complaints parents hear from their children is the “tummy ache”, also known as abdominal pain. Parents who are placed in this type of situation would initially be alarmed and anxious about the child’s condition. He or she would be worried enough to bring the child to the nearest medical facility for a thorough health assessment and immediate medical management. A general rule with abdominal pain in children is that, it should not be taken lightly all the more ignored.  Children who complain of abdominal pain may experience something that is trivial and insignificant, but in some cases this symptom can become life threatening and fatal. Parents must know the causes of abdominal pain in children, knowing these things will not only help them effectively treat and manage the condition but also make them better parents and care takers.

The first possible cause of abdominal pain in children is infection. Certain microorganisms and viruses can infect the stomach, intestines or other parts of the gastrointestinal tract causing tummy ache. The most common form of infection is called gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu or gut flu. Gastroenteritis will irritate the stomach and intestines making their lining swell. Children with this condition will manifest nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and a cramp like abdominal pain. Compared to viral infections which tend to be self limiting and go away without any medications, bacterial infections may need antibiotics. Viral infections also heal faster compared to bacterial infections. The second possible for children to experience abdominal pain is food. Food regardless of its nutritional value and content is considered a foreign material. Food may irritate the child’s sensitive gastrointestinal tract causing pain, most especially if the item is too sweet, too salty, too spicy as well as too fat and oily. Over eating or excessive food intake can increase gas production in the stomach, making it bloat resulting to pain and discomfort. Poisoning is the third potential cause of abdominal pain in children. Poisoning that comes from eating rotten food products or inedible items such as soap, plastic, rubber, and glass causes abdominal pain. Toxic and hazardous chemicals when accidentally ingested by the child can lead to poisoning. Both over the counter and prescription drug over dose can also lead to food poisoning. Aside from abdominal pain, children who experience food poisoning may feel nauseous, vomit continuously and lose consciousness. An underlying medical condition is the fourth possible cause for children to experience abdominal pain. Conditions such as complicated diabetes, appendicitis, irritable bowel syndrome or IBS and genetic gastrointestinal deformities and disorders can all cause abdominal pain at varying degrees. Treating the underlying medical condition is the best method for abdominal pain management. For instance, appendicitis is surgically treated, removing the appendix preventing discomfort and further complications. Diabetes is managed with healthy lifestyle activities like a well balanced diet and regular exercise.

If the cause of abdominal pain is correctly determined, the appropriate treatment and remedy can be given.