Tummy aches are common complaints in  children. However you may be wondering when you need to call the doctor about this issue.

What is normal

It is common for infants to spit  up food and get constipated  early in life. You have to monitor your child to make sure she’s growing up, wetting lots of diaper and growing.  Symptoms should get better around 3 to 4 months of age.

It is normal for infants to get constipation when you introduce solid foods around 6 months. Transitioning to whole milk after 1 year can also lead to constipation. It will get better when baby begins to get use to digesting whole milk.

Potty training can also contribute to constipation because children learn muscle control. Be sure to give your child lots of fluids and fiber to ease constipation. You should contact your pediatrician in the following situations.

• bowel movement at night
• bloody stool
• vomiting with constipation

If tummy aches persist for more than 3 months, you need to be concerned. Call your doctor. You need to be vigilant about weight loss and rashes.

Where it hurts matters

If the pain is located in the upper right area of the stomach, it may indicate gall bladder issues or gall stones.

Diffused pain may be related to stress. Note when this is happening in your child’s life.

Pain around the belly button could be a sign of appendicitis . This pain is so intense that the child may refuse to eat. The child may also vomit. The pain will move to the lower right side that is tender to touch. Light physical shaking can  cause pain. You need to go to the doctor or emergency room right away.

Probiotics can help

Probiotics can be beneficial to children. They can help reduce antibiotic -associated diarrhea  and help decrease the duration and frequency of diarrhea from stomach bug.  Ask your doctor about them.

 
Content Sources