What Are the Causes of a Constant Stomach Ache and Fatigue in Child ?
A constant stomach ache and fatigue in a child might indicate several conditions. In most cases, the problems are a result of lifestyle choices or temporary illness. To determine the cause of the symptoms, note any other symptoms your child is having and how long the symptoms have lasted 2. Contact your pediatrician if your child is in severe pain or her symptoms last for more than a few days 2.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Diet and Exercise
Sugary foods, inadequate hydration, low activity levels and soda can contribute to nausea and fatigue. Sodas and processed sugars cause a sugary rush that leads to fatigue. Dehydration makes it more difficult for a child's body to metabolize some foods and frequently causes severe fatigue. Children who get insufficient exercise may also experience fatigue. Carefully examine your child's diet for unhealthy choices. Eliminate sodas and sugary drinks and replace them with water.
- Sugary foods, inadequate hydration, low activity levels and soda can contribute to nausea and fatigue.
- Sodas and processed sugars cause a sugary rush that leads to fatigue.
Allergies and Sensitivities
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Many children have food allergies or sensitivities. Allergies typically provoke severe reactions such as vomiting or a rash. Sensitivities, however, may cause fatigue, stomach discomfort and general feelings of discomfort and ill health. Keep a log of the foods your child eats and note any symptoms he has after eating 2. Eliminate any foods that correlate to your child's symptoms.
- Many children have food allergies or sensitivities.
- Sensitivities, however, may cause fatigue, stomach discomfort and general feelings of discomfort and ill health.
Illness
Influenza and the common cold frequently cause stomach aches. Though both illnesses can cause fatigue, the flu is more commonly associated with low energy and lethargy. If your child's symptoms suddenly appeared without any other lifestyle change, she may have a virus.
Other Conditions
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There are several other, less common conditions that may cause stomach problems and fatigue. Anxiety and depression are particularly likely among teenagers and children under stress. Serious health problems such as chronic illnesses and autoimmune disorders are also possible. Consult your pediatrician to determine the precise cause of your child's symptoms.
- There are several other, less common conditions that may cause stomach problems and fatigue.
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References
- "The Portable Pediatrician"; William Sears, et al.;2011
- "Caring For Your Baby and Young Child, 5th Edition"; American Academy of Pediatrics; 2009
- "Dr. Spock's Baby and Child Care, 8th Edition"; Benjamin Spock; 2004
- "Health, Safety and Nutrition for the Young Child"; Lynn R. Marotz; 2011
- El-Azami-El-Idrissi M, Lakhdar-Idrissi M, Chaouki S, Atmani S, Bouharrou A, Hida M. Pediatric recurrent respiratory tract infections: when and how to explore the immune system? (About 53 cases). Pan Afr Med J. 2016;24:53. Published 2016 May 12. doi:10.11604/pamj.2016.24.53.3481
- Lin SC, Lin HW, Chiang BL. Association of croup with asthma in children: A cohort study. Medicine (Baltimore). 2017;96(35):e7667. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000007667
Writer Bio
Brenna Davis is a professional writer who covers parenting, pets, health and legal topics. Her articles have appeared in a variety of newspapers and magazines as well as on websites. She is a court-appointed special advocate and is certified in crisis counseling and child and infant nutrition. She holds degrees in developmental psychology and philosophy from Georgia State University.