Some home remedies and medical treatments can help a child’s upset stomach symptoms. These include staying hydrated, consuming certain foods, reducing stress, and more.
Upset stomach or indigestion symptoms can include a stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. In mild cases, it may be possible to treat these at home. However, if symptoms persist, it is best to contact a doctor for advice.
This article outlines steps a person can take to treat symptoms in a child with an upset stomach. It also discusses when to contact a doctor.
Most cases of upset stomachs in children are
Hydration
It is important to make sure that a child with an upset stomach remains hydrated. Healthcare professionals generally advise drinking clear liquid in small and frequent amounts to make sure that urine remains either pale yellow or clear.
If a child is vomiting, they can take small sips of water or suck on chips of ice.
Changes to a child’s diet
Changes to a child’s diet may help with an upset stomach. This can include consuming bland foods, such as plain pasta, toast, or rice.
This diet can help nourish a child while helping them manage their symptoms.
Learn more about foods to eat and avoid with an upset stomach.
Lowering stress
In some people, stress can worsen symptoms of either constipation or diarrhea. Having an upset stomach may make a child feel stressed, and this can worsen their symptoms.
Helping a child relax and lower their stress levels may help them better manage their symptoms.
It is best to contact a doctor or pharmacist for advice before giving a child medication for an upset stomach. They will be able to recommend the best medication to help the child manage their symptoms.
They may also recommend oral rehydration sachets. A person can mix these with water for the child to drink, which will help keep them hydrated. Ready-mixed solutions such as Pedialyte may also be option.
People should not give any medication containing aspirin to anyone younger than 16 years. They should contact a doctor or pharmacist for advice before administering any medication to a child.
A person should contact a doctor if the child:
- has a swollen stomach
- experiences constant pain
- has blood in their stool or urine
- has yellow eyes or skin
- is unable to keep down any fluids
- does not pass urine for 8 hours
- persistent fever
- experiences other symptoms that last more than 5 days
A person should seek immediate medical attention if the child:
- has green vomit or blood in their vomit
- has cold, clammy, or sweaty skin
- is floppy and pale
- is drowsy or has difficulty staying awake
- experiences severe pain
- experiences testicular pain or swelling
Here are some frequently asked questions about upset stomachs.
What can you give a child to settle their stomach?
People can give a child plenty of water and fluids to settle an upset stomach. Bland foods such as toast may also be beneficial if a child can keep down solid foods.
What settles an upset stomach quickly?
Probiotics
What can I give my child for upset stomach and vomiting?
People should give a child lots of fluids to replace those lost through vomiting. It is also best to avoid consuming solid foods until the child can keep down food.
What settles upset stomach and diarrhea in children?
Consuming bland foods such as plain white rice, plain pasta, boiled chicken, crackers, and liquid-based foods such as soup may help.
A pediatrician will also be able to recommend the best foods, drinks, or medications for the child’s needs and to settle their stomach.
In addition, a pharmacist can advise on suitable rehydration solutions based on the child’s age and symptoms.
Upset stomachs can cause symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. People can use some diet changes to help relieve a child’s symptoms.
It is also important to make sure that the child remains hydrated. A pharmacist may recommend an oral rehydration solution to help with this.
It is important to contact a pediatrician or to seek medical advice before giving a child medication for an upset stomach.