When Stomach Pain in Kids Needs Attention
Stomach Pain in Kids: What Ontario Parents Need to Know
When your child keeps saying their tummy hurts, it's natural to wonder if something serious is going on. The good news? Most stomach pain in children isn't dangerous and gets better on its own. But knowing what to watch for can help you feel more confident about when to worry and when to wait it out.
What's going on?
Stomach pain is one of the most common complaints from kids, and there are dozens of reasons why it happens. Sometimes it's as simple as eating too fast or feeling nervous about a test at school. Other times, it could be a mild stomach bug or constipation that needs a little attention.
The tricky thing about stomach pain in children is that they often can't describe exactly where it hurts or what it feels like. Younger kids especially tend to point to their belly button for any kind of discomfort, even if the real problem is somewhere else entirely.
Most of the time, stomach pain comes and goes without any serious underlying cause. Your child's digestive system is still developing, and it can be sensitive to things like new foods, stress, or even growth spurts.
What you might notice
- Complaints of pain around the belly button or "whole tummy"
- Pain that comes and goes, especially around meal times
- Your child curling up or holding their stomach
- Changes in appetite or eating habits
- Trouble sleeping due to discomfort
- Fussiness or irritability, especially in younger children
What helps at home
Start with the basics: make sure your child is drinking enough water and hasn't been constipated. Sometimes a warm compress on the tummy or gentle belly rubs can provide comfort. If they're still eating and drinking normally, that's usually a good sign.
Pay attention to patterns. Does the pain happen before school? After certain foods? When they're stressed? These clues can help you figure out if there's a simple trigger you can address.
Keep meals light and bland if they're not feeling well. Toast, bananas, and clear broths are gentle options. Avoid dairy and fatty foods until they're feeling better.
When to worry
Head to the emergency room right away if your child has severe pain that doesn't let up, especially with vomiting, fever over 38.5°C, or if they can't walk upright because of the pain. These could be signs of appendicitis or another condition that needs immediate attention.
You should also call a doctor or text Arlo if the pain has been going on for several days, if your child seems unusually unwell, or if you notice blood in their stool or vomit. Trust your instincts as a parent – you know your child best.
The takeaway
Most stomach aches are just part of childhood and nothing to panic about. You're doing great by paying attention to your child's symptoms and looking out for their wellbeing.
You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!
References - [Abdominal Pain in Children](https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/health-conditions-and-treatments/abdominalpainin_children)
- [Stomach Pain in Children](https://aboutkidshealth.ca/article?contentid=746&language=english)
- [When to Worry About Your Child's Stomach Pain](https://ontario.ca/page/when-worry-about-your-childs-stomach-pain)