children care | just A ' bdominal pain ,' or Something Serious?

children care | just A ' bdominal pain ,' or Something Serious?

Just A 'Tummy Ache,' or More?

Abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons for a parent to bring his or her child to a health care professional. Evaluation of a "tummy ache" can challenge both parents and the doctor.

Causes of Abdominal Pain in Children
Possible causes for a child's abdominal pain range from trivial to life-threatening with little difference in the child's complaints and symptoms. Fortunately, abdominal pain in a child usually improves quickly. Parents or caregivers face the difficult decision of whether a complaint needs emergency care or not.

Causes - Infections

Viruses or bacteria can cause abdominal pain, typically from stomach flu or gut flu (called gastroenteritis). Often these infections are associated with other gastrointestinal symptoms such as cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. Viral infections tend to resolve quickly, while bacterial infections may need an antibiotic to improve.