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Abdominal Pain in Children: Causes, Diagnosis, and Care
Abdominal pain is a frequent concern for children, often leaving parents unsure of what to do next. While many cases of abdominal pain resolve on their own, some may indicate an underlying medical issue that needs prompt attention. Understanding the potential causes can help you know when it’s time to visit our office for further evaluation.
What Causes Abdominal Pain in Children?
Several factors can contribute to abdominal pain in children, and identifying the cause is key to providing the right treatment. Here are some of the common causes:
Constipation
One of the most common causes of abdominal pain, constipation can occur if your child isn’t consuming enough fluids or fiber-rich foods. This can lead to discomfort or pain when trying to have a bowel movement.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
Urinary tract infections are quite common in children under five and can cause abdominal pain, particularly around the bladder area. If your child experiences pain or burning while urinating, it may be a sign of a UTI. It’s important to seek medical care to diagnose and treat the infection before it worsens.
Strep Throat
Although primarily a throat infection, strep throat can sometimes lead to abdominal discomfort, along with fever, sore throat, and nausea. If your child shows these symptoms, a visit to the pediatrician can help determine if strep is the culprit.
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. If your child’s abdominal pain starts in the center and moves to the lower right side, it could be a sign of appendicitis. Look out for additional symptoms like fever and loss of appetite.
Milk Allergy or Lactose Intolerance
Some children may experience abdominal cramping after consuming dairy products due to an allergy or intolerance. If you suspect your child is reacting poorly to milk or other dairy, consult a pediatrician to explore dietary adjustments.
Emotional Stress
Emotional stress can sometimes manifest physically, especially in children. If your child has been experiencing persistent abdominal pain and there are no clear physical causes, it may be worth considering if stress or anxiety is playing a role.
How to Address Abdominal Pain at Home
While some cases of abdominal pain may resolve with home care, it’s essential to know when to seek medical attention. Here are a few tips to help manage mild abdominal pain at home:
- Ensure your child is getting enough rest.
- Encourage fluid intake to prevent dehydration, especially if there has been vomiting or diarrhea.
- Avoid giving solid foods if the pain persists.
- Use over-the-counter medications like children’s pain relievers for mild discomfort (but avoid aspirin, as it’s not recommended for children).
- Schedule an appointment with your pediatrician if the pain continues or is accompanied by concerning symptoms like fever, vomiting, or persistent diarrhea.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Early identification and treatment of abdominal pain can help prevent more serious complications. If your child’s symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team at Pediatrician Specialty Practices. We’ll conduct a thorough evaluation to pinpoint the cause and recommend the best course of action. Trust us to provide compassionate and expert care when you need it most.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If your child is experiencing persistent abdominal pain or other concerning symptoms, reach out to our office to schedule an appointment. Our team is here to provide comprehensive care, answer any questions you have, and ensure your child’s health is in good hands.
Affiliation with St. Francis Hospital
We are proud to be affiliated with St. Francis Hospital in Federal Way, offering families access to high-quality, specialized care. St. Francis features a Family Birth Center dedicated to maternity and childbirth services, including comfortable birthing suites and a calm, supportive environment for new families. With options for both obstetrical and midwifery care, they provide comprehensive labor and delivery services, including high-risk pregnancy care and vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). The center is supported by a Level II Special Care Nursery staffed by a specialized neonatology team, ensuring around-the-clock care for newborns in need. This partnership allows us to connect families with top-tier resources and care tailored to each stage of pregnancy, birth, and beyond.
The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners® (IBLCE®) and International Lactation Consultant Association® (ILCA®) have recognized St. Francis Hospital for excellence in lactation care.
Accepted Insurance
At Pediatrician Specialty Practices, we strive to make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. That’s why we proudly accept most major insurance plans. To see the list of commonly accepted providers, simply click "View Full List of Companies."
Please note, this list is not exhaustive, and we may accept additional plans beyond those listed. If you don’t have insurance, we offer flexible payment plans to ensure your child receives the care they need.
For questions about your specific insurance plan or to discuss payment options, feel free to reach out to our office. We’re here to help!
Schedule Your Child’s Appointment Today!
At Pediatrician Specialty Practices, we offer flexible scheduling options to fit your busy life, with same-day sick visits available. You can easily book your child’s appointment by calling our office or using our convenient online scheduling tool.
Contact us today to make an appointment and ensure your child receives the care they deserve!
32124 1st Ave S, Suite 100, Federal Way, WA 98003
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Phone: 253-661-5939 | Fax: 253-661-5929
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