Question 1

What is the most common cause of recurrent abdominal pain in children?

Accepted Answer

Functional abdominal pain is the most common cause of recurrent abdominal pain in children — meaning there is no identifiable structural or biochemical abnormality. It is a real condition that causes genuine discomfort, often related to gut sensitivity and the gut-brain connection. Constipation is also a very common cause.

Question 2

When should I be worried about my child's stomach pain?

Accepted Answer

Red flag features requiring prompt assessment include: pain that wakes the child from sleep, pain that is progressively worsening, pain associated with fever, weight loss, blood in the stool, vomiting bile (green vomit), pain in the right lower abdomen (possible appendicitis), or pain in a child under 5 years.

Question 3

Could my child's abdominal pain be coeliac disease?

Accepted Answer

Coeliac disease (gluten intolerance) can cause recurrent abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, and faltering growth. It is diagnosed with a blood test (anti-TTG antibodies) and confirmed by intestinal biopsy. Dr Anandarajan will consider coeliac disease as part of his assessment if clinically indicated.

Question 4

Do I need a GP referral to see Dr Anandarajan about my child's abdominal pain?

Accepted Answer

No. You can book directly without a GP referral. Dr Anandarajan sees children aged 0–16 with recurrent or chronic abdominal pain at Kingsbridge Private Hospital and Ulster Independent Clinic in Belfast.

Question 5

What investigations might be needed for recurrent abdominal pain?

Accepted Answer

Investigations depend on the clinical picture. They may include blood tests (full blood count, coeliac screen, inflammatory markers, liver and kidney function), urine tests, stool tests (for infection, H. pylori, calprotectin), abdominal ultrasound, and in some cases upper GI endoscopy.

Question 6

Can stress and anxiety cause stomach pain in children?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The gut-brain connection is well established. Anxiety, stress, and emotional difficulties can cause genuine abdominal pain in children. This is particularly common around school transitions, exams, and social difficulties. Addressing the underlying anxiety is an important part of management.

Question 7

Could my child's abdominal pain be irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Accepted Answer

IBS can occur in children and adolescents. It is characterised by recurrent abdominal pain associated with a change in bowel habit (diarrhoea, constipation, or both), bloating, and relief with defecation. It is a functional condition — there is no structural abnormality. Management includes dietary advice, stress management, and sometimes medication.

Question 8

What is the difference between functional and organic abdominal pain?

Accepted Answer

Organic abdominal pain has an identifiable physical cause (e.g. coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, infection). Functional abdominal pain has no identifiable structural or biochemical cause — the pain is real but arises from altered gut sensitivity or gut-brain signalling. Both require proper assessment and management.

Abdominal Pain in Children

Abdominal Pain

Medical Causes of Abdominal Pain in Children

Surgical Causes of Abdominal Pain in Children

Investigations

Treatment

NHS Advice — When to Attend the Emergency Department with Abdominal Pain

Related Conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is your child suffering from abdominal pain?