Understanding Severe Stomach Cramps in Children: Causes & Symptoms

According to kidsgrowth.com, abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons why a child is brought to the doctor's office. When a child is experiencing severe pain in the form of cramps, it is important to decipher the cause.

Effects

• Children who experience severe stomach cramps may also experience diarrhea, bloating, fever, nausea and vomiting. Some children will be doubled over from the pain and not be able to stand in an upright position.

Causes

• Causes of severe stomach cramps in children include food allergies, ulcerative colitis, food poisoning and lactose intolerance.

Identification

• To identify what is causing severe stomach cramps in a child, a doctor will take a medical history, perform a physical exam and collect blood and urine samples.

Treatment

• Treatment for severe stomach cramps in children generally includes H2 blockers, dietary changes and pain relievers. Children are also encouraged to rest until the pain subsides.

Prevention/Solution

• To prevent severe stomach cramps in children, avoiding certain foods, eating smaller meals and incorporating high fiber foods in the diet are beneficial.