Stomach aches affect most children at one time or another. Most of the time, the cramps, nausea and/or pain associated with this symptom stem from a relatively minor disorder that quickly passes along with the accompanying stomach ache. However, stomach aches may be a symptom for a variety of illnesses, and sometimes can indicate a more serious condition that requires medical care.

Children who have a stomach ache often experience other associated symptoms, including diarrhea, fever, nausea and vomiting, and poor appetite. They may also experience pain in other body parts, such as the back, chest, pelvis, rectum, scrotum or legs.

There are many different potential causes of stomach aches, including appendicitis, constipation, infections, food-related problems, medications, stress and injury.  

Most stomach aches are the result of minor illnesses that quickly pass with little or no treatment. Once the underlying condition disappears, the child’s stomach ache is likely to subside as well. However, some cases are more severe and may require medical treatment in the form of medications or surgery.

Mothers who breastfeed rather than bottle-feed their baby reduce the infant’s risk of influenza or other infections that may trigger stomach problems. Encouraging children to wash their hands regularly can reduce the likelihood that the child will become ill with a viral infection or other contagious disorder that may cause stomach pain.

Parents are urged to contact a physician, preferably a pediatrician, immediately if their child’s stomach ache is severe and lasts more than one hour, or is accompanied by blood in the stool or urine, recent history of surgery or abdominal injury.