About this symptom
Abdominal pain is common in childhood. It may be brief or recurring and may or may not be related to meals. The description of pain alone cannot establish a diagnosis: age, associated symptoms and examination findings are important.
Possible causes of abdominal pain
Constipation, intestinal infections, bloating, functional abdominal pain, dietary factors and stomach or bowel disorders are among the possible causes. Sometimes the pain originates in the urinary tract or elsewhere. Appendicitis and other surgical conditions can begin in an unusual way, particularly in younger children. Increasing pain or deterioration warrants prompt reassessment.
What parents should watch for
Record when pain began, where the child feels it, how it changes and whether it relates to meals or bowel movements. Mention fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, changes in urination or weight loss. In younger children, crying, restlessness, refusal to eat or unusual drowsiness may be signs of discomfort. Being unable to describe pain does not exclude a serious problem.
How the cause is assessed
A clinician takes a history, examines the abdomen and assesses the child’s general condition. Blood or urine tests, ultrasound and specialist consultations are chosen when indicated rather than automatically. Suspected acute surgical conditions need emergency assessment instead of waiting for a routine appointment.
What to do before a consultation
Avoid diagnosing symptoms from websites or giving antibiotics or other medicines without medical advice. If there are no warning signs, observe the child, offer suitable fluids and note any changes. Severe or rapidly worsening pain, green or bloody vomit, blood in the stool, marked drowsiness, dehydration or scrotal pain and swelling require urgent care.
Important: This information is general and does not replace a child’s examination or individual medical advice. Seek emergency care for red-flag symptoms.
Signs and symptoms
Pain around the belly button or elsewhere, cramps, bloating, nausea, bowel changes and reduced appetite can occur in different combinations.
Younger children may cry or be unusually restless instead of explaining the discomfort. Their general condition is important.
Diagnosis and tests
The clinician reviews the history and examines the child. Targeted tests, ultrasound or referral to a paediatric surgeon or other specialist may be appropriate.
Decisions depend on warning signs and clinical findings.
Care and treatment approaches
Care depends on the identified cause. Constipation, intestinal infections and functional abdominal pain are managed differently.
Treatment and follow-up should be discussed with a clinician.
When to seek urgent care
Seek emergency help for severe or rapidly increasing pain, a rigid or very tender abdomen, green or bloody vomit, blood in the stool, pronounced weakness, dehydration, or pain and swelling of the scrotum.
Frequently asked questions
Does abdominal pain always mean gastritis?
No. Children may have many different causes of abdominal pain. Gastritis or gastroduodenitis cannot be diagnosed from pain alone.
When does a child need abdominal ultrasound?
Ultrasound is used when clinically indicated. It is not essential for every episode of pain.
Can recurrent abdominal pain wait?
Recurring symptoms should be assessed by a paediatrician or paediatric gastroenterologist. Warning signs require urgent medical care.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
