Parents should seek medical attention if there are signs of dehydration, bloody stools, high fever, or if the child appears severely weak or lethargic.
Published May 01, 2025 | 7:05 PM ⚊ Updated May 01, 2025 | 7:05 PM
While many of the stomach-related issues are mild and resolve on their own, knowing the most common causes helps determine when to seek medical attention and when to manage symptoms at home. (Creative Commons)
Synopsis: Immediate medical attention is advised for children experiencing severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, high fever, dehydration, or refusal to eat or drink.
I often encounter young patients with tummy troubles, which can be distressing for both the child and their parents. While many of these issues are mild and resolve on their own, knowing the most common causes helps identify when to seek medical attention and when to manage symptoms at home.
One of the most common problems is gastroenteritis, known as stomach flu. It happens due to triggered by viral infections such as rotavirus or norovirus, though bacteria and parasites can also be responsible. These infections tend to be seasonal and spread easily among children. Symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, and stomach cramps, and sometimes, it could lead to dehydration.
Parents should seek medical attention if there are signs of dehydration, bloody stools, high fever, or if the child appears severely weak or lethargic.
Constipation is another common complaint and is usually related to eating habits, poor fluid intake, or a habit of withholding bowel movements. Abdominal pain, bloating, and constipation are common complaints in children. Hard stools in some instances may cause painful anal fissures.
Treatment typically includes increasing fiber and fluid intake, regular toilet habits, and exercise. Over-the-counter medications can be helpful, but only under paediatric guidance.
Food-related issues like intolerance and allergy are also prevalent. for instance, Lactose intolerance can result in bloating, pain in the abdomen and diarrhoea, whereas food allergy can also lead to more serious reactions such as hives, vomiting, or even respiratory discomfort. In situations such as anaphylaxis where symptoms may be observed in the form of facial swelling and respiratory difficulty emergency medical attention is needed.
Gastric reflux disorder (GERD) is another condition to be aware of, particularly in infants. In this case, stomach acid refluxes up into the esophagus, leading to regurgitation, heartburn, irritation, and difficulty feeding. Dietary and lifestyle changes can treat milder cases, but medication may be required for more chronic symptoms.
A major, serious risk is appendicitis. Usually, it starts with an abrupt discomfort near the belly button, then moves to the lower right side. It also includes symptoms like fever, nausea, and loss of appetite. Because a ruptured appendix can result in potentially fatal complications, suspected appendicitis should always be addressed as a medical emergency.
Generally, immediate medical attention is advised for children experiencing severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, high fever, dehydration, or refusal to eat or drink. Even while many stomach issues resolve on their own, being aware of warning signs and seeking medical attention as soon as possible can have a big impact on results.
(Dr. Rajesh Battina is a Consultant – Gastroenterology — at the Manipal Hospital in Vijayawada. Edited by Majnu Babu).
