The other day, my daughter came home from school complaining that her tummy hurt on and off during class. She also felt bloated. Thankfully, she still had energy and no other symptoms. After going to the bathroom once, she felt much better.
As parents, we’ve all faced situations like this. It can be worrying. Is it something she ate? Could it be diarrhea? Or something more serious?
The good news is that stomach pain that comes and goes is very common in children, and most of the time, it isn’t serious. This article explores the common causes of tummy pain in kids and what you can do to help them feel better.
Common Causes of On-and-Off Stomach Pain in Kids
Intestinal Cramps (Stomach Spasms)
This type of pain comes in waves and is usually due to eating too quickly, overeating, or consuming gas-producing foods like beans, dairy, or sugary snacks. Most of the time, the pain goes away after your child passes gas or has a bowel movement. It’s uncomfortable but not usually a cause for concern.
Indigestion
If your child complains of belly pain soon after eating, especially along with bloating, burping, or excess gas, it may be indigestion. This often results from eating greasy, sugary, or hard-to-digest foods. It’s not serious, but changing your child’s diet can make a big difference.
Mild Stomach Virus (Gastroenteritis)
Sometimes tummy aches come with diarrhea, nausea, or a mild fever. These could be signs of a stomach bug. The cause might be contaminated food or a virus picked up at school. Most cases are mild and go away within a couple of days. Keep your child hydrated and watch for worsening symptoms.
Constipation
When a child hasn’t had a bowel movement in a few days or finds it painful to pass stool, constipation might be the reason for their stomach pain. Signs can include gas, a swollen belly, or discomfort when sitting on the toilet. Giving them more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and water usually helps.
Pinworm Infection
Pinworms are common in school-aged children. If your child has an itchy bottom at night and belly pain during the day, it could be pinworms. This is not dangerous but needs medicine to treat. Keeping nails short and washing hands often can help prevent reinfection.
How to Know If It’s Serious
Mild Pain Lasting a Few Minutes to 20 Minutes
This type of pain usually isn’t serious. Keep an eye on your child and consider changing their diet.
Pain That Gets Worse or Comes with Other Symptoms
If your child’s pain continues or is accompanied by a pale face, vomiting, fever, or bloating without passing gas, it’s best to see a doctor. These symptoms could point to something more serious like appendicitis.
Pain Near the Bottom, Bloody Stool, or Trouble Pooping
These signs might suggest constipation, a small tear near the anus, or another bowel issue. Don’t ignore it—a visit to the doctor can help clear things up.
What Parents Can Do at Home
Keep a Symptom Diary
Track when your child feels pain, how long it lasts, whether it happens before or after meals, and if it gets better after going to the bathroom.
Make Simple Diet Changes
Cut down on greasy, sugary, or cold foods. Offer more fruits, vegetables, and high-fiber options. Make sure your child drinks plenty of water throughout the day.
Encourage Movement After Meals
Light activity like walking or playing gently can help digestion. Avoid letting your child lie down right after eating.
Observe Their Overall Behavior
If your child is playful, smiling, and has good energy, chances are the pain isn’t serious. Keep watching their behavior and note any changes.
Visit the Doctor When Needed
If the stomach pain continues for days, gets worse, or comes with vomiting, fever, or trouble sleeping, don’t wait. Contact your pediatrician.
In Summary
Most of the time, children’s stomach pain is due to mild digestive problems. Intestinal cramps, indigestion, constipation, and even minor infections are common. The pain usually goes away with time, better diet, and rest. As a parent, your careful attention is important. Watch how your child acts and feels, and don’t hesitate to talk to a doctor if you’re worried.
Children often struggle to explain exactly how they feel. Your support and understanding can help them feel better sooner.
