Abdominal pain is a common condition in children and can be caused by a wide range of factors. Α proper evaluation is essential for effective management.
Possible causes of abdominal pain in children:
1. Functional and common causes
- Gastroenteritis: Often accompanied by diarrhea, vomiting, or fever.
- Indigestion: After heavy meals or consumption of fatty/sweet foods.
- Constipation: Often causes lower abdominal pain
- Gas or Bloating: Can cause discomfort and a feeling of fullness
2. Infectious Causes
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): May present with painful urination or fever
- Parasitic Infections: e.g., pinworms or other intestinal parasites
3. More serious conditions
- Surgical Causes: Various conditions that require pediatric evaluation
4. Psychosomatic Causes
- Stress or anxiety (e.g., due to school) can cause abdominal pain without an underlying physical issue
Warning signs that require immediate attention:
- Pain that doesn’t go away or gets worse
- Fever and/or chills
- Repeated episodes of vomiting
- Blood in the stools
- Severe tenderness in the abdomen
- Signs of dehydration: dry tongue, reduced urination
Management:
Home care:
- Rest
- Hydration (water, chamomile tea, or electrolyte solutions)
- Special diet depending on the underlying cause
Medical attention:
- If symptoms persist for more than 24–48 hours
- If any of the above warning signs are present