Overview

Abdominal (belly) 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 belly pain in children are caused by minor problems, such as stomach flu, infection or constipation. Home treatment often is all that is needed to relieve them.

Your doctor may have recommended a follow-up visit in the next 8 to 12 hours. 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. If your child has belly pain and is very young or uses a different way to communicate (besides talking), they may show different signs such as:

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.

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 Gastrolyte. These drinks contain a mix of salt, sugar, and minerals. You can buy them at drugstores or grocery stores. You can give these drinks or diluted apple juice as long as your child is throwing up or has diarrhea.
• Start to offer small amounts of food when your child feels like eating.
• Have your child take medicines exactly as directed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you think your child is having a problem with a medicine.
• Do not give your child aspirin, due to the risk of Reye syndrome. If you are giving your child ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve) for pain and they develop an upset stomach or become dehydrated, talk to your doctor.