Abdominal pain facts for kids

Abdominal pain (also known as a stomach ache) is a common feeling of discomfort or pain in the area of your stomach. It can be a mild ache or a sharp pain. Many different things can cause a stomach ache, from something simple like being hungry to more serious issues.

What Causes Abdominal Pain?

Stomach aches are very common, and most of the time, they are not serious. Here are some of the most frequent reasons you might feel pain in your tummy:

Common Reasons for a Stomach Ache

• Indigestion: This happens when your stomach has trouble breaking down food. You might feel full, bloated, or have a burning feeling after eating. Eating too much or eating certain foods can cause it.
• Constipation: If you haven't had a bowel movement for a while, or if it's hard to go, you might feel pain and discomfort in your lower belly. Not drinking enough water or not eating enough fiber can lead to constipation.
• Hunger: Sometimes, a rumbling or aching feeling in your stomach is just your body telling you it's time to eat!
• Food Poisoning: This happens when you eat food that has harmful germs in it. It can cause stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Gas: Air trapped in your digestive system can cause sharp, cramping pains. This often happens after eating certain foods or swallowing too much air.

More Serious Causes

While most stomach aches are not serious, some can be a sign of something that needs a doctor's attention.

• Gastritis: This is when the lining of your stomach becomes irritated or swollen. It can cause a burning or aching pain in your upper belly.
• Ulcers: An ulcer is a sore that forms on the lining of your stomach or the first part of your small intestine. It can cause a burning pain, especially when your stomach is empty.
• Appendicitis: This is a serious condition where your appendix, a small finger-shaped organ, becomes inflamed. The pain usually starts near your belly button and moves to the lower right side of your abdomen. It often gets worse and needs immediate medical help.

When to See a Doctor

Most stomach aches go away on their own. However, you should tell an adult or see a doctor if:

• The pain is very severe or gets much worse quickly.
• The pain is on the lower right side of your belly (could be appendicitis).
• You have a high fever along with the pain.
• You are throwing up a lot or have blood in your vomit or stool.
• The pain lasts for several hours or days.
• You are unable to eat or drink.

See also

In Spanish: Dolor abdominal para niños