Tummy Aches
Ask our expert how to make your child feel better
About Our Experts
Puneet Gupta, M.D., is a pediatric gastroenterologist at Lehigh Valley Health Network.
Practicing Medicine Since
1989
Education
M.B.B.S., 1986, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi
Residencies in General Pediatrics
All India Institute of Medical Sciences
New York University
Fellowship in Pediatric Gastroenterology
University of Chicago
Board Certification
Board certified in General Pediatrics and Pediatric Gastroenterology
Awards and Distinctions
Welsh Pediatric Society, Prize for Best Presentation, 1993
North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Fellows Presentation Award, 1998
American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, President's Choice Poster, 1999
Transplant 2000, Plenary Session, Oral Presentation
Digestive Disease Week 2000, Poster of Distinction
World Congress of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Poster of Distinction, 2000
World Congress, Young Investigator Award, 2000
AASLD Oral Presentation, 2000
DDW Oral Presentation, 2001 and 2002
NASPGHN, Poster of Distinction, 2003
Naser Tolaymat, M.D.
Pediatric Gastroenterologist
Practicing Medicine Since
1987
Education
M.D. and Internship, 1983, Damascus University School of Medicine, Syria
Residency in Pediatrics
Jacksonville Health Education Program, University of Florida
Fellowship in Pediatric Gastroenterology
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
Fellow Associate
Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
Board Certification
Board certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Gastroenterology
- My son sometimes complains of tummy aches. What could be causing them?
- What if these problems don’t go away on their own?
- Should I give my child laxatives or antacids?
Q: My son sometimes complains of tummy aches. What could be causing them?
A: Almost everyone has a bellyache at one time or another. They can be associated with food, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, an infection, appendicitis or stress. They often get better on their own, or with changes in diet and eating habits.
Food: Children sometimes have pain when they eat too much of something or foods that are greasy or spicy. They may also have a food allergy or be lactose intolerant, or the food may be spoiled.
Constipation: Bowel movements that are dry, hard or painful could be caused by a diet heavy in fat and sugar and light on fiber and water. Eat more fruits and vegetables, especially with the skin on, and whole grains. Exercise can also keep things moving. Teach your kids to use the bathroom whenever they feel the urge.
Diarrhea and vomiting: These may be caused by gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as stomach flu. They can also be caused by changes in diet or certain medications. Intestinal parasites and bacteria can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Always wash your hands after using the bathroom!
Infections:Infections can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, even when they occur in another part of the body. Pneumonia, strep throat and ear infections can all cause stomach aches, as can bacterial infections like salmonella or E.coli.
Appendicitis: Pain that starts near the belly button and extends to the lower right side of the abdomen could be appendicitis. It may be accompanied by fever, vomiting or loss of appetite. You will need surgery to fix appendicitis.
Stress: Concerns and worries about school, problems at home, performance and other stresses can lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation. Just talking to someone can help ease the pressure – and your nervous stomach.
Q: What if these problems don’t go away on their own?
A: They could be signs of a more serious problem. Many of these problems can be easily corrected. Talk to you physician if these problems don’t go away within a week or keep coming back, or if you see blood in the stool. If symptoms are severe, call your doctor immediately.
Common gastrointestinal problems which can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, bloating or gas include:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): IBS can be triggered by stress or certain foods, especially milk, chocolate and caffeine. Mucous may be present in the stool, but children generally do not have fever or rectal bleeding. Stress reduction and changes in diet may provide relief.
Celiac disease: A person’s digestive system may be damaged because of a sensitivity to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. Gluten exists in a variety of foods, beverages and even medications. Celiac disease runs in families. Fortunately, it can be controlled by adopting a gluten-free diet.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD):chronic inflammation of the intestines can result in either ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. It can cause bleeding, fever and weight loss in addition to the other symptoms. IBD is usually managed with medications.
Gastric and peptic ulcers: Ulcers can result when the lining of the stomach becomes irritated by stomach acids. They can usually be treated with medications.
Q: Should I give my child laxatives or antacids?
A: Don’t give either unless your doctor tells you to. Try adding more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and water to your child’s diet, and get them moving with exercise. Don’t let your child overeat or eat right before bedtime. Stay away from foods high in fat and sugar. Encourage your child to go to the bathroom whenever the urge strikes – waiting will make constipation worse.
This page last updated 12/26/08 07:22 PM
