First Aid & Emergencies

Stomachache and Nausea (Children)

Knowing that a child has a stomachache or nausea can be hard, but pain lessens within two hours in most cases.

Call Doctor If:

The child has a stomachache and any of the following:

• Pain that happens more often or gets worse
• Pain that moves from the belly button to the lower right of the abdomen
• Trouble walking because of pain
• No appetite for a day or longer
• Green or yellow vomit
• Symptoms of dehydration such as darker urine and fewer wet diapers
• Black or bloody stool
• Problems passing stool
• A rash that looks like bruises on the legs and buttocks
• Headache and sore throat along with stomach pain
• Pain when urinating

Treating Symptoms of Your Child's Stomachache

• Have the child lie down and rest.
• Give clear fluids such as water or flat soda.
• Keep a container nearby in case the child vomits.
• If the child vomits more than once, watch for signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination or dry diapers, dry lips, and crying without tears.
• If you think the child could be constipated, put him on the toilet. Passing a stool may ease the pain.
• Sit the child in warm water to help release a stool if you think the child is constipated.
• Avoid giving ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), pain medicine, or laxatives.