Abdominal Pain

Advice for Parents and Carers

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If your child has any of the following:

Becomes pale, mottled and feels abnormally cold to touch
Has blue lips
Becomes confused or very lethargic (difficult to wake)
Has green or blood stained vomit
Develops severe pain despite pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
Has testicular pain (especially in teenage boys)

You child needs urgent help.

please phone 999 or go to the nearest hospital emergency (A+E) department

If your child has any of the following:

Develops a swollen tummy
Has blood in their poo or wee
Experiences constant pain for more than 1 day despite pain killers
Has a fever or symptoms continuing for more than 5 days
Becomes increasingly thirsty
Is weeing significantly more or less than normal
Develops yellow skin or eyes
Has weight loss/ poor growth

You need to contact a doctor or nurse today

please ring your GP surgery or contact NHS 111 for advice – dial 111 or for children aged 5 years and above visit 111.nhs.uk

If your child:

Is alert and interacts with you
Develops diarrhoea & vomiting but no red or amber signs
Experiences pain associated with menstruation in a girl
Is frequently constipated

Self care

Continue providing your child’s care at home. If you are still concerned about your child, contact NHS 111 – dial 111 or for children aged 5 years and above visit 111.nhs.uk

How can I look after my child?

Should include ensuring your child has regular food and drink (clear fluids) and regular pain relief (paracetamol/ ibuprofen should be given as per manufacturers instructions)

This guidance is written by healthcare professionals from across Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight.

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