Stomach ache in small children
Definition:
Children frequently suffer from stomach aches. Since body awareness is not yet fully developed in small children, they perceive their abdomen very much as the centre of their bodies and often complain of stomach pains when, in fact, it might be their throat that is hurting.
Causes:
Gastroenteritis is the most common cause of stomach ache in small children. An illness of the respiratory tract (e.g. pneumonia), or urinary tract (cystitis, pyelitis) can also be the cause. Intussusception is a rare cause, but it is dangerous and must be treated immediately.
Symptoms:
- The child is restless and prone to crying as a result of abdominal pain
Gastroenteritis can also involve:
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- possible fever
What can mum/dad do?
What can mum/dad do?- Parents are advised not to give pain killers in the form of suppositories, tablets or drops without a clear diagnosis by a paediatrician.
- In case of gastroenteritis, give the child plenty of liquids
When should you see a doctor?
When should you see a doctor?- When the child appears sick and miserable
- When the child stops playing due to the pain
- When the child wakes up at night in pain
- When the child vomits for a prolonged period of time
- When the child has blood in their stool
