Most Common Causes of a Stomachache

If your child has: Bloating and stomach cramps
It could be: Overeating and/or gas
What your doctor might recommend: A warm compress and gentle belly rub. Tums Kids can also ease heartburn pain in children over 2

If your child has: Stomach pain and hard, pelletlike bowel movements
It could be: Constipation
What your doctor might recommend: Diluted prune or pear juice or an over-the-counter stool softener; more fiber in his diet

If your child has: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and chills
It could be: Stomach flu
What your doctor might recommend: Offer plenty of liquids and water-based foods like soup to prevent dehydration

If your child has: Stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, and often fever
It could be: Food Poisoning
What your doctor might recommend: Plenty of fluids to prevent Dehydration

If your child has: Gas, vomiting, or stomach upset after eating dairy foods
It could be: Lactose intolerance
What your doctor might recommend: Lactose-free milk and cheese or Lactaid pills taken before eating dairy foods

If your child has: Stomachache plus sore throat and sometimes fever
It could be: Strep throat
What your doctor might recommend: Antibiotics

If your child has: Severe pain around the navel or right area of the stomach
It could be: Appendicitis
What your doctor might recommend: An immediate office visit or a trip to the ER

If your child has: Unexplained stomach pain that occurs in an otherwise "well" child
It could be: Stress
What your doctor might recommend: Look for ways to ease stressors like overscheduling. A counselor may help, too.