Stomach ache is a common childhood ailment. For the most part, the pain is mild yet persistent. But, regardless of the severity of this condition, it is very essential for parents to know what are the causes and treatment of stomach ache in children.

Causes

Pinning down the main cause of stomach ache can be complicated. But, the following are the most common causes:

Constipation

Constipation is the most common cause of stomach ache in children. If your toddler is unable to have a bowel movement for 2 to 3 days, he will experience stomach cramps and pains. This will only go away once the stool has passed.

Food Intolerance and Allergies

Stomach ache in children normally occur after eating certain foods, particularly dairy products (e.g. egg, cheese, milk and wheat), spicy foods, sweets (e.g. chocolates, ice cream, candies and junk foods) or foods they may be allergic to.

Overeating

It is not uncommon for children to swallow their food without gnawing them well. This leads to overeating and indigestion which results to pain and uneasiness in the stomach.

Gas

If your little one loves drinking caffeinated or fizzy drinks such as sodas and juices, then a bout of tummy pain is not unexpected. Too much consumption of acidic liquids causes excessive gas production.

Stomach Flu

Also known as gastroenteritis, stomach flu is an inflammation of the tummy and intestines caused by a bacterial virus (Campylobacter, E. coli, Salmonella or Shigella) and intestinal parasites such as giardia and roundworms.

Treatment

Plenty of Rest

The best remedy for stomach ache is to get adequate rest. Let your toddler relax until the pain subsides. Refrain from letting him perform strenuous activities for the mean time. Encourage soothing activities like watching TV, finishing a jigsaw puzzle, reading a book or listening to classical music together.

Drink Lots of Fluids

See to it your toddler drinks plenty of fluids throughout the day to prevent dehydration. Avoid giving milk, juice and sports drinks as these will only increase the pain. Stick to water and soup (chicken broth) instead. Or, you can offer warm lemon tea with honey to help loosen up his cramped stomach muscles. If he refuses fluids, try giving him ice cubes to suck on.

Apply Heat

Heat is very effective in relieving any type of discomfort. You can place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your toddler’s tummy while he is lying on his stomach.

Give A Tummy Massage

Apply a small amount of essential oil like chamomile, ginger, lavender or peppermint on your toddler’s tummy and then gently massage his stomach in a circular, clockwise motion. A tummy massage helps relieve a colicky, gassy or constipated stomach.

Medication

Give your toddler acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help ease his discomfort. Make sure you follow the suggested dosage on the label. Better yet, call your pediatrician first.

If your child’s stomach ache continues or gets worse, seek medical attention at once. This may be a sign of something more serious.