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2. Mommy my tummy hurts!
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HealthLine Newsletter Winter 2004/2005:
"Mommy, my tummy hurts!" |
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Dr. Audrey Birnbaum, Pediatric Gastroenterologist, talks about when or if those words should be cause for concern.
Most Recurring Stomach Aches are Not Serious |
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Is your child complaining - but not running a fever, experiencing weight loss, vomiting or diarrhea? If so, it's unlikely that there is a serious medical problem. Several psychological factors can cause stomach discomfort: anxiety about going to school, need for attention, desire to avoid eating, even sibling rivalry.
Very often, the pain can be real, but is simply an exaggerated response to normal intestinal functions. After all, a child may not be able to tell the difference between a hunger "pain" and a need to have a bowel movement. Some children have intense spasms right after the onset of a meal - yet they are quite healthy.
Recurrent pain is most common in girls from 5 to 10 years old. If the child sleeps through the night and there are no other symptoms of illness or any obvious pattern, serious illness is less likely. |
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When Can a Stomach Ache Be a Symptom of a Medical Condition?
Occasionally intestinal parasites, dietary intolerances (lactose or sorbitol found in juices and some low carbohydrate products), unrecognized constipation, acid irritation of the stomach, or food allergies, can cause stomach pain.
A simple examination, evaluation of the stool, diet review, and blood testing can easily rule out a medical condition without the need for an extensive evaluation. Even if there is no medical cause, severe pain that interferes with a child's daily activities can be treated.
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What a Parent Can Do |
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As a parent, keep in mind that children always pick up on their parents' worries. So provide a calm, reassuring environment as much as possible. Emphasize to your child that stomach aches, like headaches, are a normal part of growing up. And remind them that they almost always go away. Provide a quiet room for rest plus a special bellyache pillow. And since heat reduces spasm, a heating pad or warm bath may help. And remember that children, especially younger ones, can often be distracted. And never underestimate the value of a good tummy rub! | |
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Audrey Birnbaum, MD
Pediatric Gastroenterologist, Mount Kisco Medical Group
A specialist in liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease and food allergies, Dr. Birnbaum graduated from the NYU School of Medicine in 1986. She completed her residency and fellowship in Pediatrics and Pediatric Gastroenterology at Mount Sinai Hospital. In addition, Dr. Birnbaum has been an associate professor at Mount Sinai Medical School since 1991. |
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