Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which Specialist should I take my child to for their stomach pain?Consult a Pediatric Gastroenterologist or your child's Pediatrician for stomach pain; they can determine the cause and provide appropriate care.
2. Why does my child's stomach hurt when the child coughs?
Stomach pain and coughing can be related due to the proximity of the stomach and lungs. Intense coughing strains the stomach muscles, causing abdominal soreness. In children, additional reasons for stomach pain during coughing may include pneumonia, which can manifest as upper abdominal pain with a fever and cough, and GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), causing sharp stomach pain, coughing, vomiting, and heartburn.
3. What causes a rigid abdomen in children?
Abdominal rigidity in children may result from various factors, including appendicitis, problems with pelvic organs, abscesses inside the abdomen, cholecystitis due to gallstones, and other causes such as constipation, infections, and food-related problems.
4. Can functional abdominal pain be serious in children?
Functional abdominal pain is a common disorder in children, typically occurring between ages 4–16. While proper treatment often leads to improvement, some children may continue to experience pain into adulthood.
5. What might be causing stomach pain with fever but no diarrhea in children?
Stomach pain with fever in children may indicate an infection, such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, cholecystitis, or pyelonephritis. Other causes include constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, food allergies, lactose intolerance, food poisoning, and stomach viruses. Immediate medical attention is warranted if the pain lasts, worsens, induces nausea or vomiting, or doesn't improve within 24 hours.
6. What medicine is suitable for stomach pain in children?
Over-the-counter medicines for children's stomach pain should be administered under the guidance of a pediatrician. Paracetamol is a common painkiller suitable for children, and home care measures may include adequate rest, hydration, and avoiding certain foods.
7. How do you manage chronic functional abdominal pain in children?
Treatment for chronic functional abdominal pain in children may involve dietary changes, medications to alleviate symptoms, pain management, counseling, relaxation techniques, psychological treatments, and non-pharmacologic approaches.
8. What can I give a child for upset stomach and vomiting?
For upset stomach and vomiting in children, provide small amounts of fluids after vomiting, offer bland foods like crackers and bananas, encourage sleep for a few hours, and avoid giving fluids for about 2 hours after the last vomiting episode. Consult a doctor before administering any medication to stop vomiting.
9. What could be the cause of pain in the belly button area in children?
Pain in the belly button area in children may be caused by physical factors like constipation, trapped wind, or gastroenteritis. Non-physical causes such as anxiety or stress can also contribute. Other potential causes of abdominal pain include accidental poisoning, appendicitis, gallstones, hernia, bowel twisting, blockage, or inflammatory bowel disease.
