Intermittent Stomach Pain in Children? Here Are the Causes and How to Manage It
Intermittent stomach pain in children will surely leave you confused and worried. A child who is initially cheerful can suddenly become fussy when pain strikes, yet seem to return to normal before you have a chance to address it.
What is actually the cause of this condition? Is it dangerous? And what is the best way to address it? Let's find out the answers here!
What Causes Intermittent Stomach Pain?
Intermittent stomach pain in children can be triggered by several conditions, including:
1. Diarrhea

When a child has diarrhea, they will feel comfortable after having a bowel movement. However, soon after, the stomach pain returns, causing them to suffer once again. This happens for several reasons, ranging from gas buildup in the stomach due to infection to diarrhea cramps that occur in several waves.
Not only food contaminated with bacteria or viruses, but unhygienic habits such as putting dirty hands in the mouth also provide an opening for germs to enter and infect the child's body.
2. Bloating

Children often enjoy mealtime cheerfully, but habits such as chewing in a hurry, talking while eating, and laughing out loud can cause air to enter the stomach.
This will trigger bloating, which is often accompanied by stomach pain that comes and goes alternately.
3. GERD

GERD, or acid reflux, is one of the health problems that often affects children. Studies even indicate that around 10% of children experience this problem at least once a week.[1]
In addition to intermittent chest and stomach discomfort, this health problem can also cause nausea, coughing, shortness of breath, and difficulty swallowing food.
4. Constipation

Why does stomach pain in children come and go? Your child may be experiencing constipation, especially if your little one rarely eats fiber-rich fruits and vegetables.
When stool is difficult to pass due to a lack of fiber, increased pressure in the stomach and accumulated gas will cause pain. The pain usually subsides as the gas is gradually released through flatulence.
5. Milk Intolerance

Milk is indeed synonymous with a healthy drink. The problem is that not all children are suitable for milk, especially cow's milk.
For some children who are intolerant to cow's milk, drinking milk can cause lactose to be fermented by bacteria in the digestive tract, which then triggers the production of excess gas and fluid in the stomach.
6. Appendicitis

If your child experiences stomach pain accompanied by fever, a swollen stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea, the problem may be related to appendicitis.
However, do not panic immediately. Appendicitis more commonly occurs in older children, usually between the ages of 10 and 15, when they are able to express complaints about the condition they are experiencing.[2]
7. Amoebic Dysentery

Amoebic dysentery is an infection caused by parasites that attack the intestine, causing children to experience stomach cramps, fever, and nausea. Your child may experience this condition if they:
- Often play in dirty places.
- Eat street food with questionable hygiene.
- Drink iced beverages made with untreated water.
- Drink unpasteurized milk.
This disease is rarely experienced by children under two years old, but more commonly occurs in children aged 5 to 14.[3][4]
What Should You Do If Your Child Complains of Intermittent Stomach Pain?
Before taking your child to the doctor, you can try several simple solutions at home to relieve the symptoms, such as:
1. Apply a Warm Compress to the Stomach

Make your little one's stomach much more comfortable with a warm compress. The heat transferred from the compress will relax the muscles in the stomach and stimulate movement in the digestive tract.
Use this method while letting your child lie flat on their back for at least 15 minutes.
2. Drink Bitter Black Tea

In a study involving children, consuming unsweetened black tea was shown to reduce the intensity of bowel movements. The tannins in tea are also effective at relieving bloating.[5]
To experience the benefits, you can give your child a cup of warm black tea without added sugar or milk.
3. Apply Sido Muncul Minyak Kayu Putih Tiga Anak

The warming sensation that occurs when you apply Sido Muncul Minyak Kayu Putih Tiga Anak will help relieve bloating and provide comfort to a stomach affected by diarrhea and constipation.
Made from 100% eucalyptus oil, this product is safe and comfortable for children to use.
4. Eat and Drink Prebiotics and Probiotics

Before giving medication for intermittent stomach pain in children, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, you can try giving prebiotics and probiotics to relieve constipation-related pain. Examples include yogurt, kefir, kombucha, bananas, apples, and avocados.
When Should You Be Concerned About Stomach Pain in Children?

If your little one's condition does not show improvement after several days, you should seek medical attention immediately to determine the cause and receive more appropriate treatment. It is possible that your child is experiencing the condition due to a more serious problem.
International Children's Day is the perfect time to give your little one extra attention. Make sure intermittent stomach pain in children no longer bothers them by using Sido Muncul Minyak Kayu Putih Tiga Anak.
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