Causes of Abdominal Pain in Children

Causes of Abdominal Pain in Children:

Abdominal pain in children is a common complaint and can arise from a wide range of causes, ranging from mild and self-limiting to serious and requiring immediate medical attention. Here are some common causes:

1. Gastrointestinal Causes

Constipation: One of the most common causes of abdominal pain in children, often due to diet, dehydration, or withholding stool.
Gastroenteritis: Viral or bacterial infections causing stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Food Intolerances or Allergies: Lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivity (celiac disease), or other food allergies.
Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, causing severe pain in the lower right abdomen, often accompanied by fever and vomiting.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Recurrent abdominal pain associated with changes in bowel habits.
Intussusception: A condition where part of the intestine slides into another part, causing a blockage (common in infants and toddlers).
Hernia: Inguinal or umbilical hernias can cause pain, especially if they become trapped (incarcerated).
Parasitic Infections: Such as giardiasis or pinworms.

2. Infections

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Can cause lower abdominal pain, along with frequent urination and discomfort.
Streptococcal Pharyngitis (Strep Throat): Can sometimes cause abdominal pain, especially in younger children.
Pneumonia: Lower lobe pneumonia can sometimes cause referred abdominal pain.

3. Dietary Causes

Overeating or Indigestion: Eating too much or consuming fatty, spicy, or unfamiliar foods.
Food Poisoning: Caused by contaminated food, leading to cramps, nausea, and diarrhea.
Swallowed Air: Excessive air swallowing (aerophagia) can cause bloating and discomfort.

4. Psychological Causes

Stress or Anxiety: Emotional stress can manifest as abdominal pain, especially in school-aged children.
School Avoidance: Some children may complain of stomach pain to avoid school or other stressful situations.

5. Surgical or Serious Conditions

Appendicitis: Requires immediate medical attention; pain typically starts near the belly button and moves to the lower right abdomen.
Volvulus: Twisting of the intestines, causing severe pain and obstruction.
Testicular or Ovarian Torsion: In boys, testicular torsion can cause referred abdominal pain; in girls, ovarian torsion can cause severe pain.
Kidney Stones: Less common in children but can cause severe abdominal or flank pain.

6. Other Causes

Menstrual Cramps: In adolescent girls, abdominal pain may be related to their menstrual cycle.
Functional Abdominal Pain: Recurrent pain without an identifiable organic cause, often linked to stress or sensitivity.
Lead Poisoning: Can cause abdominal pain, along with other symptoms like fatigue and irritability.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A complication of diabetes that can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and dehydration.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Severe or worsening pain.
Pain localized to one area (e.g., lower right abdomen for appendicitis).
Persistent vomiting or diarrhea.
Blood in stool or vomit.
Fever, lethargy, or signs of dehydration.
Pain that wakes the child from sleep.
Swelling or tenderness in the abdomen.

If your child is experiencing persistent or severe abdominal pain, it’s important to consult a pediatrician to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.