Seven common causes for which a child has belly pain. When should be taken urgently to the doctor

One of the most common complaints of children, especially those under the age of 12, is abdominal pain. Although frequent, this type of pain in children does not hide a serious problem, most of the time. But parents must be careful about context, other symptoms and the general behavior of children, because behind this seemingly simple phrase “my tummy hurts!” It can be a constipation, a virus, a child's stress, but also an appendicitis that requires surgery.

We detail 7 causes most commonly encountered are the basis of belly pain of the little ones and when it is time to go to the doctor.

1. Constipation – a trivial but annoying cause

One of the most common causes of abdominal pain in children is constipation. Although a less common problem in lower infants, constipation is a frequent cause of pain in older children, which complain especially in the lower abdomen.

If the little boy does not have a regular chair, he may feel bloated, irritated or even intense pain, say American doctors from Mayo Clinic. They believe that intestinal problems are more likely when the child's diet lacks fresh fluids, fruits and vegetables, but also of high fiber -rich grains. Doctors claim that the lack of movement or postponement to the toilet can lead to constipation.
What can you do: Provides foods rich in fruits, vegetables, integral cereals and proper hydration. If the problem persists, consult the doctor.

2. Viral infections attack in the vorose season

Viral gastroenteritis is a common cause of abdominal pain, accompanied by diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or fever over 38 degrees Celsius. These are often caused by rotavirus or Norovirus, especially among young children. Also called stomach flu, these gastroenteritis often give cramps and abdominal pain, sometimes blood diarrhea and create a significant discomfort.

Unexpectedly, neck infections caused by streptococci, which occur frequently in children over 2 years old, may be related to belly pain. Streptococcal tonsillitis is a neck infection that is manifested by sore throat, fever and abdominal pain. This is due to the fact that swallowed bacteria can cause intestine irritation. Children can also contract perianal streptococcus, which is a streptococcal infection around the anus. This can cause pain, constipation (because they do not want to do the needs), as well as abdominal pain. The pediatrician may examine the child for any of the types of infection and may take a sample to check if there are bacteria. If the results are positive for streptococcus, the child will have to be treated with an antibiotic.

What can you do: rest, hydration and mild diet. In case of dehydration or severe symptoms, medical consultation is required.

3. Urinary tract infections – more frequent in little girls

A urinary tract infection can cause diffuse pain in the lower abdominal area. The child can say that his tummy hurts, but in fact the problem comes from the bladder. In general, urinary tract infections (ITU) are much more common in children between the ages of 1 and 5, especially in girls. ITU can cause pain in the abdomen and bladder area, as well as pain and burns.

Children with urinary tract infections usually urinate in small quantities, but more frequently than usual, they can have blood in the urine, they may or may not have a fever. I can have an ugly smell of urine.

What to do: A summary of urine and consultation of the pediatrician are essential.

4. Food intolerance – milk or gluten, possible culprits

Some children do not digest certain foods well. Lactose or gluten intolerances can lead to bloating, cramps and abdominal discomfort. Milk allergies can also be accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, blood in the chair and rashes.

What to follow: Abdominal pain installed after consumption of milk, cheese or gluten products.
What can you do: Discuss with the doctor for investigations and any allergic tests.

5. Appendicitis – an emergency that should not be ignored

Severe abdominal pain, which begins around the navel and moves to the bottom right, can signal an appendicitis. When a child has appendicitis, he can complain of constant stomach pain in the center of the abdomen, which then descends. Although very rare in children under 3 years and less common in children under 5, appendicitis is possible at any age and represents a medical emergency.

Children with appendicitis usually stop eating; They will not even want to eat their favorite food. They have fever, nausea, state of apathy.
What to do: Go immediately to the doctor or the guard room. Untreated appendicitis can have serious complications.

6. Stress and anxiety – emotional “belly”

Many children feel stress through abdominal discomfort. Strong emotions can be manifested by belly pain, especially before kindergarten/school, exams or tense situations in the family.

Although this pain rarely appears before the age of 5, it can happen to a younger child who is subjected to unusual stress. The pain tends to appear and disappear over a period of more than a week and often aligns with a stressful or unpleasant activity.

In addition, there are no other symptoms or associated complaints (fever, vomiting, diarrhea, cough, lethargy or weakness, symptoms of urinary tract, sore throat or flu -like symptoms). There may also be a family history of this type of disease.

How do you recognize it: It often occurs before stressful events without other physical symptoms.
What can you do: Listen to him, validate his emotions and talk to a psychologist if the discomfort persists.

7. Intestinal parasites

Parasitic infections, such as oxios or giardia, are still common in children, especially in communities (kindergartens, schools). They can cause recurrent abdominal pain, bloating and anal itching, especially in the evening, according to CDC.

Interestingly, belly pain can be vague, which appear and disappear, often without precise location. There are several types of pain: from diffuse discomfort around the navel, abdominal cramps, especially after meals, abdominal pain accompanied by bloating or gas, abdominal pain accompanied by intense itching in the anal area, in the case of oxies.

Untreated infections can also cause irritability, fatigue or weight loss, because the parasites consume the nutrients needed.

What to do: The doctor will recommend a co -parasitological examination and, if necessary, antiparasitic treatment. In some cases, it is advisable for the whole family to undergo treatment, to prevent reinfestation.

When should you go to the doctor for belly pain?

A 15 -year -old child with abdominal pain has a serious condition, such as appendicitis, according to PubMed.com, which is why parents need to pay attention to a few alarm signals:

• Intense pain or that persists for more than 2-3 days
• Fever, repeated vomiting or blood in the chair
• Lack of appetite, apathy or drowsiness
• Swollen or very sensitive abdomen.

For any doubt or puzzle, seek the advice of the pediatrician or the family doctor.