Some of the causes of abdominal pain in  children

Constipation :  This is often to be blamed for abdominal pains . It is rarely a problem in younger infants but older infants do experience this especially in the lower part of the abdomen. When a child’s diet lack fresh fruits and vegetables and  fiber rich in whole grains, bowel problems are more likely to occur.

Urinary tract infection  UTI: This is more common in  1 to 5 years old girls.  It causes discomfort in the abdominal and bladder area. The child may also experience pain and burning during urination. Children with this infection may urinate frequently or are likely to wet the bed. However  they may not have any fever. Contact your pediatrician if your child complains of these symptoms.

Strep throat : This throat infection is caused by the bacteria called streptococci . It is common in children over the age of 3 years old. Symptoms include sore throat, abdominal pain  and fever. Have your child checked by the pediatrician if he has these symptoms.

Milk allergy : This is a reaction to milk protein and it causes abdominal cramping usually accompanied by vomiting , diarrhea and skin rash.

Appendicitis :  This is rare  in children under the age of 3 and uncommon in those under the age of 5. One of the first signs is a constant stomachache in the center of the abdomen . Later the pain moves down and over the right side.

Lead poisoning : It often occurs in toddlers living in an older house where lead based paint has been used. When children eat small chips of paint off the walls and woodwork, the lead is stored in their bodies and create many health problems. Parents should also be on the look out for toys and other products that contain unacceptable levels of lead.  Symptoms of lead poisoning include the following :

• abdominal pain
• constipation
• irritability
• lethargy
• convulsion

Emotional upset : This sometimes causes recurrent abdominal pain that has no apparent cause. It rarely occurs before age 5 and it occurs in children in an unusual amount of stress. The first sign is  abdominal pain that comes and go over a period of more than a week  and often associated with a stressful or unpleasant activity. Other symptoms that may accompany it include :

• fever
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• coughing
• lethargy
• sore throat
• flulike symptoms

Your  child may also be quieter or nosier than usual and may have trouble expressing his  thoughts or feelings. If your child exhibits these behaviors, find out if he is having trouble at school or with friends, family or siblings. Has there been a recent death in the family, divorce or separation of parent. Talk to your pediatrician . He can suggest ways to help your child talk about his troubles.