From the moment your baby arrives, you quickly realize you’re in for a lifetime of poop talk, so we’re diving right with some straight talk about tummy aches in kids. While belly pain is no fun for kids or parents, at some point, we all come face-to-face with a dreaded tummy issue. Recently, I teamed up with KnowYourOTCs.org to answer common questions about tummy aches in kids. From the stomach flu to heartburn and constipation, we’ve all been there, and we will all be there again, but with a little guidance, we can feel confident in how to help our children safely find relief from upset stomach symptoms.

Scroll through this tummy troubles video series for some common questions and answers about tummy aches, and share your own questions or stories about tummy issues in the comments below!

TUMMY TROUBLES: STOMACH FLU & DIARRHEA

COMMON QUESTION #1

Usually, I’m okay when my kids get sick, but the stomach flu is a whole different story. When it comes to diarrhea, when do I know it’s time to call the doctor?

DR. KATIE’S ANSWER

The stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis, typically occurs for about 3 to 5 days and is miserable for the kids and equally miserable for us. Signs to go to the doctor or call your doctor are:

1. Blood in the stool
2. Signs of dehydration
3. Decreased urination

Remember to keep your child hydrated with small amounts of fluid every 10 to 15 minutes. When they can tolerate foods, start with breads and rices.

Continue to Common Question #2