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Abdominal Pain in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

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Abdominal pain has many possible causes. Some are not serious and get better on their own in a few days. Others need more testing and treatment. If your child's belly pain continues or gets worse, your child may need more tests to find out what is wrong.

Most cases of abdominal pain in children are caused by minor problems, such as a stomach infection or constipation. Home treatment often is all that is needed to relieve them.

Do not ignore new symptoms, such as fever, nausea and vomiting, urination problems, or pain that gets worse. These may be signs of a more serious problem.

The doctor has checked your child carefully, but problems can develop later. If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

Make sure your child rests.
Give your child lots of fluids a little at a time. This is very important if your child is vomiting or has diarrhea. Give your child sips of water or drinks such as Pedialyte or Infalyte. These drinks contain a mix of salt, sugar, and minerals. You can buy them at drugstores or grocery stores. Give these drinks as long as your child is throwing up or has diarrhea. Do not use them as the only source of liquids or food for more than 12 to 24 hours.
Start to offer small amounts of food when your child feels like eating.
Have your child take medicines exactly as directed. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with a medicine.
Do not give your child aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). These can cause stomach upset.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

	Your child passes out (loses consciousness).
	Your child vomits blood or what looks like coffee grounds.
	Your child's stools are maroon or very bloody.
	Your child has severe belly pain.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

	Your child's belly pain gets worse, especially if it becomes focused in one area of the belly.
	Your child has a new or higher fever.
	Your child's stools are black and look like tar or have streaks of blood.
	Your child has new or worse diarrhea or vomiting.
	Your child has symptoms of a urinary tract infection. These may include: Pain when urinating. Urinating more often than usual. Blood in the urine.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

Your child does not get better as expected.

Current as of: October 19, 2023

Content Version: 14.0

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.

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