When to Take Your Child to the Emergency Room for Stomach Pain?
Jan 17, 2025
Stomach pain is a common complaint in children and can often be managed
at home. However, there are certain situations where stomach pain may signal a
more serious problem requiring immediate medical attention. If you’re at home
or attending an event and your child experiences stomach pain, it’s essential
to know when to act swiftly. Let’s explore this topic in detail to help you
make informed decisions.
When to see a doctor
for Stomach Pain?
It’s crucial to recognize the signs that indicate the severity of your
child’s stomach pain. Here are four key points to keep in mind:
- Severe pain and crying: If your child
is crying excessively due to stomach pain and cannot be comforted, this
may indicate a serious condition.
- Green-colored vomit: Vomiting with
a greenish color could be a sign of any serious issue. Do not ignore this
symptom.
- Abdominal distension: If your
child’s stomach appears bloated or distended, this could point to an
underlying problem that requires urgent medical evaluation.
- Blood in the stool: Blood in your
child’s stool is always a cause for concern and warrants immediate medical
attention.
What happens in the
Emergency Room for severe Stomach Pain?
If you take your child to the emergency room with severe stomach pain,
the medical team will assess whether the issue is medical or surgical in
nature. Some conditions, like intussusception (common in children aged 1-2
years) or appendicitis are surgical emergencies and require prompt intervention.
Here’s what you can expect during the evaluation:
- Initial assessment: The doctor
will examine your child and take a detailed history of the symptoms.
- Diagnostic tests: Basic tests
such as blood work, X-rays, and ultrasounds may be performed to identify
the cause of the pain.
- Treatment plan: Based on the findings, the medical team will
determine the appropriate treatment.
Don’t ignore the
warning signs of severe stomach pain in your child. Prompt action can make a
significant difference, especially in emergencies.
Our 24/7 Consultant Led Advanced Pediatric Emergency Services are
always prepared to handle any health emergency your child may face!
Dr. Satyanarayana Kavali
Consultant - Pediatrician
Rainbow Children's Hospital LB Nagar