"My child keeps saying his tummy hurts" is one of the most common worries parents bring. Most repeated tummy pain is not dangerous, but it is real pain, and it affects school, sleep and appetite. A careful assessment separates the common, manageable causes from the few that need tests or treatment.
Signs parents notice
- Tummy pain coming back over weeks or months
- Pain with vomiting, loose motions or constipation
- Bloating, burping or pain after meals
- Missing school or waking from sleep with pain
Common causes
- Functional abdominal pain and stress-related pain
- Constipation
- Gastritis, acidity and reflux
- Worm infestation and gut infections
- Food intolerance (such as lactose intolerance)
- Less commonly: gallstones, pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease or rare conditions
How Dr. Jenny evaluates & treats
- A detailed history of the pain pattern, diet, bowel habit and stress
- Examination and growth check to look for "red flags"
- Only the tests that the history suggests — avoiding unnecessary scans
- Clear, practical treatment and reassurance where appropriate
- Further investigation or referral when red flags are present
When to see a doctor
- Pain that wakes the child at night
- Weight loss, blood in stool or persistent vomiting
- Fever or jaundice with tummy pain
- Severe pain in the lower right side — seek urgent care
Serial: 01786-126908 · In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Watch: Dr. Jenny explains
Tummy & gut
শিশুর বারবার পেট ব্যথা? শুধু গ্যাস নাকি অন্য সমস্যা?
Recurrent tummy pain — just gas, or something else?
Watch on YouTubeFrequently asked questions
Is my child's tummy pain just gas?
Sometimes it is, but repeated pain deserves a proper check. Constipation, acidity and infections are common and treatable; red-flag signs such as weight loss or blood in stool need investigation.
This page gives general information for parents and is being reviewed by Dr. Ferdous Ara Jenny. It does not replace a consultation — every child is different.