5 Common Digestive Issues in Kids

A stomachache here and there is pretty normal when you’re a kid. But if your son or daughter has recurring abdominal pain or digestive problems, it could be a sign of something worth treating.

If you think your child might be suffering from a digestive issue, don’t hesitate to visit our SmartClinic Urgent Care clinics in West Covina and Santa Clarita, California. Our dedicated team specializes in both pediatric care and abdominal pain, so we’re well-positioned to help your little one feel better as quickly as possible. 

To help you determine if it’s time to visit us, here are five common digestive issues in kids and their warning signs.

1. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

You might think heartburn is just for adults, but this type of stomach acid regurgitation can affect infants and children, too. And when it happens on a recurring basis, they’re diagnosed with GERD.

Common GERD symptoms include:

• Not eating
• Burping
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Hiccups
• Choking or gagging

Lifestyle modifications — such as not eating for a few hours before bedtime — can help your child experience fewer symptoms. 

2. Lactose intolerance

If your son or daughter’s body can’t properly break down lactose, the sugar in dairy, they might get a stomachache after consuming it. Other signs of lactose intolerance include:

• Loose or watery stool
• Gas
• Bloating

Fortunately, this tummy trouble is very treatable. Having your child eat lactase enzymes before consuming dairy gives their body what it needs to properly process the lactose. 

3. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS)

IBD or IBS can leave your child with persistent, intense stomachaches. The most common sign of both is diarrhea. 

If you notice that your child regularly has abdominal pain and diarrhea, come in to visit our team. We can identify if either of these conditions is causing your daughter or son’s discomfort, and your doctor can help you find the right treatment plan.

4. Constipation

Constipation can create a looping cycle for children. If their stool is large and painful to pass, they may avoid using the bathroom for fear of reliving an uncomfortable experience. That can lead to more constipation, creating more discomfort. Certain foods, medications, and even routine changes can contribute to constipation in kids. 

5. Celiac disease

If your child has celiac disease, their body mistakenly attacks the lining of their small intestine after they consume foods or drinks containing gluten. The symptoms are fairly similar to other digestive issues we’ve listed here, including:

• Stomachaches
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

Children whose parents or siblings have celiac disease are most likely to have the condition.

Get help for your child

Clearly, a lot of digestive issues come with fairly similar symptoms. To find out what’s going on with your child so they can find relief, visit our team. We have a broad range of diagnostic tools we can use to figure out what’s at the root of their symptoms. 

Walk in to visit us SmartClinic Urgent Care today, or call the clinic that’s convenient to you to schedule an appointment. You can also book a telemedicine visit online.