Why does my child have stomach pain at night?

Nighttime stomach pain in children is often caused by constipation, gas/bloating, acid reflux, hunger or overeating, or stress/anxiety that shows up at bedtime. Pinworms can also cause nighttime discomfort, especially if there’s anal itching.

Call a doctor soon if the pain is severe, keeps coming back, or comes with fever, repeated vomiting, blood in stool, weight loss, pain with urination, or sharp pain in the lower right abdomen. Pain that wakes your child from sleep should also be checked.

At home, try:

• a warm bath or warm compress
• a calmer, screen-free bedtime
• avoiding big meals right before bed
• a symptom diary of foods, bowel movements, and stress

If it’s persistent or worrying, check with your child’s pediatrician.