Abdominal Pain & Stomach Aches in Kids

Most tummy aches pass on their own, but some need a doctor. Our board-certified pediatricians can find the cause the same day, with a lab and X-ray right in the office.

Pediatrician gently checking a young girl's belly while her mother stands beside her

Common Causes of Belly Pain in Kids

Stomach aches are one of the most common complaints in childhood. Common causes pediatricians see include:

  • Constipation, one of the most frequent causes
  • Stomach bugs that bring vomiting or diarrhea
  • Urinary tract infections, which a urine test can check
  • Strep throat. A sore throat can cause stomach pain in children too.
  • Appendicitis, which needs care quickly
  • Milk allergy or intolerance
  • Stress or worry, like nerves before school
Mother talking with her son, who is holding his stomach at the kitchen table

When to Have Your Child Seen

The American Academy of Pediatrics advises getting your child checked if:

  • The pain continues or gets worse over three to five hours
  • The pain comes with a fever
  • Your child also has a severe sore throat
  • There’s a big, lasting change in appetite or energy
  • You notice pain or burning when your child pees

Go to the ER or call 911 if your child has:

  • Severe belly pain
  • Signs of appendicitis, especially pain that keeps getting worse
  • Vomiting or diarrhea that won’t stop, or is too weak or drowsy to drink
  • May have swallowed a button battery or magnets
  • Trouble breathing, or doesn’t respond normally

Frequently Asked Questions

When is a stomach ache serious?

See a doctor if the pain lasts or gets worse over three to five hours, or comes with a fever, a severe sore throat or a big change in energy. Go to the ER for severe pain or signs of appendicitis.

Yes. Children with strep throat sometimes complain of a stomach ache. A rapid strep test during your visit can check.

Pain that starts near the belly button or along the right side and keeps getting worse, pain that is worse when moving, not wanting to eat, vomiting and fever. If you suspect appendicitis, get care right away.

It depends on the exam. A pediatrician may order a urine test, a strep test, other lab work or an X-ray, all available in our office.

No. Walk in any day from 9 AM to 9 PM, or book an appointment online to hold your place.

Get Your Child's Stomach Pain Checked Today

Walk in any day from 9 AM to 9 PM, or book an appointment online.