Abdominal pain in children can arise from various causes, and this situation can vary depending on the child's age, health status, and other factors. Common causes of abdominal pain include infections, gas entrapment, constipation, food allergies and intolerances, and serious conditions such as appendicitis.
What Are the Causes of Abdominal Pain in Children?
The causes of abdominal pain in children can develop based on various factors. These causes are generally examined in two groups: functional (non-organic) or organic (physiological or pathological). Additionally, age group, dietary habits, environmental factors, and psychological factors can also affect the type and severity of the pain.
Functional Abdominal Pain
Functional abdominal pains may be related to the child's lifestyle, dietary routine, or stress level.
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Gas and Bloating: Can occur after eating quickly, consuming carbonated drinks, or eating foods that are difficult to digest.
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Constipation: Consuming foods low in fiber, low water consumption, and inactivity can lead to difficulty in defecation and abdominal pain in children.
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Irregular Eating: Irregular meal habits can cause stomach contractions.
Infection-related Abdominal Pain
There are many types of infections that can cause abdominal pain. These conditions usually occur alongside other symptoms.
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Viral Gastroenteritis (stomach flu): May cause abdominal pain along with vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.
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Urinary Tract Infections: Can be seen along with frequent urination, burning sensation, and fever.
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Throat Infections: In some cases, upper respiratory tract infections such as pharyngitis or tonsillitis can cause abdominal pain.
Food Intolerance and Allergy
Conditions like lactose intolerance, celiac disease, or food allergies may cause abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements. These types of pain are triggered after consuming specific food groups.
Causes Requiring Surgical Intervention
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Appendicitis: May present with pain in the lower right abdominal area, loss of appetite, and fever.
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Intussusception: The condition where the intestine folds in on itself; can cause sudden, severe, and intermittent pain.
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Inguinal Hernia: Can manifest with swelling and pain in the abdomen, especially noticeable with severe crying and straining.
Psychologically Originated Abdominal Pain
Stress, anxiety, and emotional tension in children can manifest with physical symptoms.
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School Fear or Separation Anxiety: Abdominal pain observed in the morning should be carefully evaluated.
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Family Changes: Even if the child does not verbally express this, they may externalize it through physical symptoms.
Other Causes
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Parasitic Infections: May occur with itching that worsens at night and weight loss.
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Post-Trauma Abdominal Pain: Pain due to internal organ injuries can develop following falls or impacts.
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Gynecological Causes in Girls: Although rare before puberty, conditions such as ovarian cysts or torsion can cause abdominal pain.
How Is Abdominal Pain Diagnosed in Children?
Abdominal pain in children can stem from many different causes and proper diagnosis is crucial. To determine the cause of abdominal pain, attention is primarily given to the child's age, symptoms, duration, and severity. A comprehensive evaluation is made by considering the child's health status, medical history, and dietary habits.
In cases of short-lived and self-resolving abdominal pain, typically no diagnosis or treatment may be necessary. However, if there is suspicion of different diseases in children, various diagnostic methods can be employed to expedite the diagnosis of abdominal pain.
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Urinalysis, stool sample
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Blood test
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Abdominal ultrasound
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X-ray
Home Methods for Children with Abdominal Pain?
Not every abdominal pain requires emergency intervention. Especially for transient pain related to the digestive system, some simple methods at home can help ease your child. However, these applications are helpful only in mild and temporary pain; if the pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, a specialist should be consulted.
Apply Warm Compresses
A warm compress placed on the abdomen can relax muscles and alleviate pain related to gas cramps. Ensure that the temperature is at a level that will not burn the skin during application.
Try Gas-relieving Massages
Gentle massages in a clockwise direction can be soothing for children experiencing gas pain.
Increase Fluid Intake
Drinking plenty of water can help the digestive system function smoothly in cases of constipation and mild stomach discomfort. Sugary and fizzy drinks should be avoided.
Feed with Light Foods
Instead of fatty, spicy, or hard-to-digest foods, options like soup, boiled potatoes, and bananas, which are gentle on the stomach, can be preferred.
Ensure They Rest
It's important for a child with abdominal pain to rest adequately. Sleeping or lying in a quiet environment can help reduce the pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the common cause of abdominal pain in children?
Common causes include constipation, gas, and simple viral infections. These conditions are usually mild and resolve on their own within a few days.
At what age can appendicitis pain be seen?
Appendicitis is more commonly seen in children aged 5 and above. However, though rare, it can also occur in the 2-4 age group and may be more challenging to diagnose.
How can mild abdominal pain be relieved at home?
Methods such as increased fluid intake, warm baths, gentle abdomen massage, and rest can be effective for mild abdominal pain. However, if the pain persists, medical evaluation should not be neglected.
What tests are done for persistent abdominal pain in children?
Blood and urine tests, stool examinations, and abdominal ultrasound are the most commonly used methods. In necessary situations, support from pediatric gastroenterology or psychology may also be required.