5 Common Causes of Stomach Aches in Kids

If you have a child, he or her pains are also your pains. Although it is not uncommon for kids to get a stomach ache, this does not mean that it does not concern you when it happens. There are various causes of stomach discomfort, which may include bloating, tenderness, gas, and cramps, and some are more common than others. The good news is that, depending on the cause, there is usually a simple children tummy ache remedy that will take care of the symptoms quickly.

What Causes Tummy Aches in Children?

The cause of stomach pain can usually be determined by asking your child which part of the tummy hurts. These are the most common causes.

1. Constipation

If your child complains about pain that is located right above the belly button and in the lower abdomen, it may be constipation. This occurs when the child has dry stools or infrequent bowel movements, and common symptoms include bloating and difficulty going to the bathroom.   

2. Stomach bug

An infection, or eating spoiled food, can result in stomach discomfort. This is usually described as general pain around the belly button, and additional symptoms may include nausea or cramps.

3. Indigestion

If you kid is complaining about pain in the upper abdomen, this may be due to indigestion. Accompanying symptoms are often heartburn, bloating, burping, and nausea.

4. Anxiety or stress

Emotions often cause physical symptoms in children, and the stomach is a common location, especially around the belly button. A common complaint is general pain or discomfort.  

5. Irritable bowel syndrome

If your child has frequent stomach issues and has symptoms such as cramping, bloating, chronic diarrhea or constipation, or mucus in the stool, he or she may have irritable bowel syndrome. This is a chronic disorder. 

How to Fix an Upset Stomach

Often, upset stomach relief is easy if you know what the cause is. Constipation is usually caused by diet, so make sure your child is getting enough fruit, vegetables, and water. Exercise also helps to move things through the digestive system. 

If your child is suffering from a stomach bug, comfort may be found in bland food such as crackers or toast. Time and rest will also reduce symptoms.

Indigestion may be caused by certain foods, so if it is frequent, pay attention to which foods seem to be the culprit and minimize their intake. 

If anxiety seems to be the cause of discomfort, try to distract them by playing a fun game or reading a favorite book. If the child is experiencing changes, such as a move or a new teacher, discuss potential concerns and focus on the positives.

If you suspect your child has a more serious disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome, you may want to schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional to figure out the right course of action. 

For general stomach pains and discomfort, one option for fast relief is polisorb. This removes bacteria and toxins from the digestive tract, and symptoms reduce within minutes.