The other day, my child came home from school and said her tummy was hurting on and off during class. She also felt bloated. Thankfully, her energy was fine and she had no other symptoms. After going to the bathroom once, she felt much better.
As parents, we’ve all probably faced similar situations—and it can be worrying. Is it something she ate? Is it diarrhea? Or could it be something more serious?
Don’t panic. Stomach pain that comes and goes is actually very common in kids, and most of the time, it’s not serious. In this article, we’ll go over the possible causes and what you can do to help.
Common Causes of On-and-Off Belly Pain in Kids
1. Intestinal cramps (also called stomach spasms)
What it feels like: The pain comes and goes, like waves.
Why it happens: Often due to eating too quickly, eating too much, or eating gas-producing foods (like beans, milk, or sweets).
Is it serious? Usually not. The pain often gets better after passing gas or going to the toilet.
2. Indigestion
What it feels like: Belly pain soon after eating, often with bloating, burping, or lots of gas.
Why it happens: Eating greasy, sugary, or mixed foods, or if your child’s digestion is still developing.
Is it serious? Not really, but diet adjustments can help a lot.
3. Mild stomach bug (gastroenteritis)
What it feels like: Cramping tummy pain, sometimes with diarrhea, nausea, or a mild fever.
Why it happens: Eating something unclean or catching a virus.
Is it serious? Usually mild and goes away on its own, but make sure your child stays hydrated. See a doctor if symptoms worsen.
4. Constipation
What it feels like: Your child hasn’t pooped for a few days, or stools are hard and painful to pass.
Other signs: Stomach pain, lots of gas, even pain near the bottom when passing gas.
Is it serious? Not usually. Encourage fruits, veggies, whole grains, and water.
5. Pinworm infection
What it feels like: Itchy bottom at night and tummy pain during the day.
Who gets it: Mostly preschool and school-aged kids. It’s common and treatable.
Is it serious? Not dangerous, but needs medicine. Keep hands and nails clean.
How Can Parents Tell If It’s Serious?
👉Mild, short-lived pain (a few minutes to 15–20 minutes)
Usually nothing serious. Watch and adjust your child’s diet.
👉Ongoing or worsening pain, especially with pale face, vomiting, fever, or bloating without passing gas
May need a doctor’s checkup. Could be something like appendicitis or a more serious stomach issue.
👉Pain near the bottom, trouble pooping, or blood in the stool
Could be constipation, a tear near the anus, or another bowel problem. See a doctor.
What Can Parents Do at Home?
✅Keep a symptom log
Note when the pain happens, how long it lasts, if it’s related to meals, and whether it improves after pooping.
✅Adjust the diet
Avoid greasy, cold, or sugary foods. Add more fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods. Make sure your child drinks enough water.
✅Encourage light movement
Don’t let kids lie down right after meals—gentle activity helps digestion.
✅Watch their overall condition
If your child seems happy, playful, and active, it’s probably nothing serious.
✅See a doctor if needed
If the pain is ongoing or your child is throwing up, has a fever, or can’t sleep from the pain, don’t wait—see a doctor.
In Summary
When kids complain of tummy pain that comes and goes, it’s often due to minor digestive issues. Still, as a parent, your careful observation matters. Pay attention to their symptoms, behavior, and how long the pain lasts. Most cases aren’t serious, but don’t hesitate to see a doctor if anything seems off.
Kids may not always explain how they feel clearly, so your patience and attentiveness are key to helping them feel better.
