Stomach Issues in Children

A stomachache in a child can stem from many causes. It could be a bug going around school, something they ate, or even just a change in their routine. Kid stomach issues can come from a range of everyday causes, and in many cases, they improve with the right care and support. Most children will start feeling better with a little time and the right support at home.

Common causes include viral infections like norovirus, which spreads quickly in school and daycare settings, as well as food sensitivities, constipation, acid reflux, and stress-related discomfort. Left unmanaged, some stomach issues can lead to dehydration or worsening symptoms, which is why knowing when to seek care matters.

Here are some of the common stomach issues we treat, along with how we approach care:

Vomiting and Nausea

Vomiting is usually caused by a virus, a reaction to food, or motion sickness. Our providers will assess how often your child is vomiting, check for dehydration, and recommend when oral fluids can be started. We will discuss dietary changes and whether anti-nausea medications are indicated. If vomiting is severe or associated with other symptoms, we'll see if further testing is necessary.

Diarrhea

A stomach virus, food intolerance, or bacterial infection often causes diarrhea. Our team will determine hydration levels, likely cause, and provide instructions for what fluids to take, what to eat, and when you can return to normal activity. Additionally, we can obtain testing to determine if there is a bacterial cause if necessary.

Stomach Pain and Cramping

There are many causes for abdominal pain in children, ranging from gas and constipation to parents worrying about appendicitis or acidity. Our providers will evaluate your child to rule out any causes that require urgent care and provide a clear treatment plan for pain relief and follow-up if needed.

Norovirus

Norovirus is extremely common in schools and daycare facilities as it can spread quickly by simply touching a contaminated surface or person. Symptoms include sudden-onset vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and a low-grade fever. Most people recover in one to three days with rest and hydration but can experience dehydration (especially in young children). Our team will evaluate your child and guide on when hospitalization is needed vs. what you can safely manage at home.

Constipation

Constipation is often missed as a cause of stomach pain. Our providers can help determine causes such as diet, hydration, activity level, and provide treatment recommendations to relieve your child’s discomfort.

Acid Reflux (GERD)

Occasionally, children will experience frequent stomach pain, heartburn, or nausea as a result of acid reflux. Our providers can evaluate your child’s symptoms and provide dietary recommendations and treatment to manage episodes.

Signs Your Child May Have An Upset Stomach

Since kids don't always have the words to describe what they're feeling, you have to look for physical cues.

• Infants and Toddlers

• Fussiness or frequent crying

• Pulling legs toward the stomach

• Feeding difficulties

• Changes in bowel movements

• Trouble sleeping

These are often early signs of a kid's upset stomach, even if your child is complaining about stomach pain and can’t explain how they feel.

• Older Children and Teens

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea or constipation

• Bloating or fullness

• Decreased appetite

• Low energy.

If your child's stomach symptoms include fever or signs of infection, please visit our Pediatric Infection page for more information about what we treat and when care should be sought.

Why Your Child Might Be Having Stomach Trouble

Children are more vulnerable to stomach issues for many reasons. Their immune systems are still developing, and they frequently come into contact with other children at school, daycare centers, and extracurricular activities.

• Common risk factors and causes include:

• Viral infections like Norovirus and Rotavirus

• Bacteria from food or water contamination

• Food sensitivities/allergies/allergies

• Constipation due to diet or low water intake

• Stress or anxiety or changes in routine

• Acid reflux/GERD

• Over-use of antibiotics, which can disrupt gut health

Teaching kids basic hygiene habits, such as regular and thorough handwashing, is one of the best ways to prevent stomach bugs from spreading at home and at school.

When to Visit A Children’s Urgent Care In Alaska

It’s not always easy to know when to wait and when to seek care at a children’s urgent care in Alaska. Here’s a simple way to decide.

Manage at Home If:

• If your child has an upset stomach that is mild and they are able to keep fluids down

• If energy level is nearly normal and symptoms are not getting worse

• If your child is vomiting or has diarrhea, but it’s infrequent and getting better

Visit the Clinic or Book a Telemedicine Appointment:

• If your child is complaining about stomach pain that does not go away after 24 hours

• If vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than 24 hours

• If unable to keep fluids down after 8+ hours

• If unable to urinate after 8+ hours

• If they have a temperature of 102 degrees or higher along with stomach symptoms

• If symptoms are not improving within 48 hours

Alaska families often find non-emergency urgent care is the most convenient solution for same-day care, and virtual care means you can get answers from home first.

Get Immediate Help If:

• There is severe or persistent stomach pain that does not improve

• Feel pain in lower right stomach area that lasts more than 1 hour

• Has difficulty keeping eyes open or is abnormally unresponsive

• Has not urinated in 12+ hours

• There is blood in vomit or stool

• Symptoms of severe dehydration: sunken eyes, dry mouth, no tears when crying

Telemedicine Options for Families Across Alaska

Alaska Children’s Urgent Care and Outreach offers statewide telemedicine to make care easier to access.

What Can Be Done Over Video

• Review symptoms

• Observe your child’s condition

• Guide your kid's upset stomach

• Help determine next steps

When In-Person Care Is Needed

• Symptoms are worsening

• A physical exam is required

• Additional care is needed

Telemedicine is available across Alaska, making non-emergency urgent care accessible no matter where you live.