ABDOMINAL PAIN

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR MILD ABDOMINAL PAIN

Reassurance: A mild stomachache can be caused by something as simple as gas pains or overeating. Sometimes a stomachache signals the onset of a vomiting or diarrhea illness from a virus (gastroenteritis). Watching your child for 2 hours will usually tell you the cause.
Rest: Encourage lying down and rest until feeling better.
Clear Fluids: Offer clear fluids only (e.g., water, flat soft drinks or 1/2 strength fruit juice).
Prepare for Vomiting: Keep a vomiting pan handy. Younger children often refer to nausea as a "stomachache."
Pass a BM: Encourage sitting on the toilet and trying to pass a bowel movement (BM). This may relieve pain if it is due to constipation or impending diarrhea.
Avoid Medicines: Any drug could irritate the stomach lining and make the pain worse. Do not give any medicines for stomach cramps.
Expected Course: With harmless causes, the pain is usually better or resolved in 2 hours. With gastroenteritis, belly cramps may precede each bout of vomiting or diarrhea. With serious causes (such as appendicitis) the pain worsens and becomes constant.
Call Your Doctor If:
- Pain present > 2 hours
- Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2003

View Anatomic Index of Topics