What Causes Upper Abdominal Pain In A Child?

Posted on Sun, 9 Oct 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 9 Oct 2016 Answered on

Wed, 2 Nov 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a 4 year old. No fever, complains of "chest pain" but points to upper abdomen 1/2 or so below xiphoid. Has acute symptoms that wake him up crying, last about 5 minutes, then subside. Didnt sleep enough last, had little appetite today. Wondering if I should pack him to er tonight or reassess in the morning. Would also have to wake sleeping 2yo sibling.

Answered by Dr. Archana Verma (30 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Start first line treatment for gastritis

Detailed Answer:
Hi
I understand your concerns but don't worry. The location of pain and symptoms are suggestive of gastritis.

I would recommend you to start with the first line treatment in the form of ranitidine twice daily or lansoprazole once a day in proper dose as per his weight. Ensure plenty of water intake throughout the day and avoid spicy and fat rich food.

Hopefully it will be of help. In case the child doesn't show any signs of improvement then visit a pediatrician for clinical evaluation and definitive treatment.

Take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar