What Tests Should Be Done for a Child's Stomach Pain

When a child experiences abdominal pain, it is important to perform certain medical evaluations such as a complete blood count (CBC) and an abdominal ultrasound. Abdominal pain can be caused by various factors including digestive issues, infections, or even heart-related conditions. The type of tests required often depends on the location of the pain and the overall symptoms the child is experiencing.

If the pain is intermittent or related to eating and bowel movements, it may affect appetite and weight. Additionally, symptoms like fever and vomiting might accompany the pain. In such cases, doctors will assess potential illnesses through a physical examination which may include abdominal palpation or listening to the heart with a stethoscope.

Before visiting the doctor, parents should communicate any observations about the child's condition to better assist the physician in making an accurate diagnosis. Once the initial assessment is done, further testing may be recommended based on the findings.

The digestive system includes organs such as the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, appendix, liver, and gallbladder. Depending on the area of discomfort, different organs could be involved:

If the pain is located in the upper middle abdomen, it could indicate a problem with the stomach, esophagus, pancreas, or liver.

On the other hand, pain in the central abdominal region may suggest an issue with the small or large intestine.

Diagnostic methods vary depending on the suspected illness. If the abdominal pain isn't linked to an organ within the abdominal cavity, it might stem from a cardiac condition. For example, acute myocarditis could require an electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect abnormalities. Although rare, inflammation of the heart can impact blood flow and indirectly cause abdominal discomfort.

In some instances, initial tests like blood work and ultrasounds are not sufficient to determine the cause of the pain, especially if symptoms persist despite treatment. In such situations, hospitalization may be necessary for more advanced diagnostics such as CT scans, MRI, endoscopy, or colonoscopy.

For mild cases of abdominal pain, a basic evaluation through patient history or physical examination alone may be enough to identify the cause and recommend appropriate care. Early detection and proper diagnosis are crucial for effective treatment and recovery.