#asktheexperts hello..my son is 33yrs old...since quite a month or more he is complaining about stomach ache each time before pooing. I consulted doc but he doesn't seem to be knowing the reason of it. what can be done to cure the pain?

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It can be concerning when a young child like your 33-month-old son frequently complains of stomach pain, especially if it seems to occur regularly before pooping. Here are some potential reasons for his discomfort and steps you can take to help alleviate it:

Possible Causes of Stomach Pain Before Pooping:

1. Constipation:

One of the most common reasons for stomach pain in toddlers is constipation. Even if your son is pooping regularly, his stools could be hard or difficult to pass, causing discomfort.

Signs of constipation include straining during bowel movements, hard or pellet-like stools, and a distended stomach.

2. Functional Abdominal Pain:

This is a common condition in toddlers where there is recurrent pain with no clear medical cause. It’s often related to stress, changes in routine, or even dietary issues.

3. Food Intolerance or Sensitivity:

A food sensitivity (e.g., to dairy or gluten) could lead to stomach pain before bowel movements. This could result in bloating, cramping, and diarrhea or constipation.

4. Gastrointestinal Infections or Worms:

Stomach infections or intestinal worms (like pinworms) can cause discomfort and pain, especially before pooping.

5. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):

Although rarer in young children, IBS can cause abdominal discomfort associated with bowel movements. The pain often improves after pooping.

6. Psychosomatic Causes:

Sometimes, children may express physical symptoms like stomach pain due to stress, anxiety, or emotional distress.

What You Can Do:

1. Dietary Adjustments:

Increase Fiber: Introduce more fiber-rich foods like fruits (e.g., apples, pears, prunes), vegetables, and whole grains. Fiber can help soften stools and make them easier to pass.

Hydration: Make sure he’s drinking plenty of water, as dehydration can make stools hard and difficult to pass.

Probiotics: You can include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or give him a pediatric probiotic supplement (with your doctor’s approval) to help with gut health.

2. Regular Bowel Movements:

Encourage a regular routine for bathroom visits. Have him sit on the potty after meals to develop a habit of regular bowel movements.

Create a calm, stress-free environment during potty time to avoid any anxiety about pooping.

3. Abdominal Massage:

Gentle belly massages, particularly around the lower abdomen, can help relieve discomfort. Move your hands in a clockwise direction to promote bowel movement.

4. Monitor for Food Triggers:

Keep a food diary to track what he eats and when the stomach pain occurs. If a pattern emerges (e.g., pain after dairy products or certain foods), it may indicate a food sensitivity.

5. Check for Signs of Worms or Infections:

Watch for other signs like itching around the anus, changes in stool consistency, or increased nighttime waking. If you suspect worms, your doctor might recommend a deworming treatment.

6. Use a Stool Softener (if advised by the doctor):

If constipation is suspected, ask your pediatrician about safe stool softeners or mild laxatives for toddlers, which can make bowel movements easier and less painful.

When to See the Doctor Again:

If your son continues to experience pain despite these changes, or if he shows any of the following signs, it's important to consult the doctor again or get a second opinion from a pediatric gastroenterologist:

Weight loss

Severe or constant pain

Blood in stool

Vomiting or frequent diarrhea

By making dietary adjustments and monitoring his symptoms closely, you may be able to alleviate his discomfort. If the issue persists, further medical evaluation may be necessary to rule out underlying conditions.