From a slight tiredness to major illness, toddlers may complain of stomach aches most of the times as this is the first ache they could easily relate to when they are not fine. There could be several reasons for tummy aches, but usually it is not a serious matter. In spite of that, it is not easy for concerned parents to see the little kid going through even that. Mostly the source of tummy ache is not known and it becomes little difficult to treat it.
But, rather than rushing straight to pediatrician, parents should comfort the toddler by being close, lying down or moving out to change the upset mood of the kid. During these comforting moments, parents will be able to gauge how severe the tummy ache is and how much troublesome the child is feeling. There could be simple reasons of a heavy meal or stressful day causing tummy ache that usually get managed with time. But for more troublesome tummy aches, parents must try simple natural solutions to comfort the child and help in reducing the tummy ache.
Important home remedies to treat stomach aches in toddlers:
6 Home Remedies For Stomach Ache in Toddlers
1. Make the Child Comfortable
Allow the child to lie down the way he/she feels most comfortable to be in. Ensure that the child is wearing a little loose cotton wears to avoid tightening at tummy region. The toddler should be able to relax properly with enough fresh air around.
This is the good way of getting away with whatever little tummy ache that have arisen due to usual overeating of any specific food or getting hurt slightly at the tummy region. Moreover, be at their side and read nice story books to distract their attention from stomach ache.
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2. Soft Massage
Massage gently with palm and fingers over the stomach in circular motions, clockwise circling around the belly button. Mothers can also perform ‘paddle wheel method’ for massaging using palm of the hand starting from chin region, moving slowly through chest downwards, till the diaper area. This is bound to offer much relief to the child as circulation is enhanced that relieves the aching nerves and muscles.
3. Warm Compress
Heat is very useful in relieving stomach aches in young children. With no possible allergic reactions or side effects it offers the safest remedial solution. Make use of a heating pad at the lowest warmth and put over the abdomen of the child. Alternatively, one can use a water bottle with warm water and then wrap it with diaper or towel and use it as warm compress.
Even one can make use of a pillow cover or an old sock and fill it with warm rice. Use this rice filled warm sock for treating tummy aches in kids. Be careful with how much warmth is okay for the child as susceptibility is quite low in children as compared to adults.
4. Blueberries
Blueberries are rich source of antioxidants that is quite effective for treating stomach aches happening due to diarrhea. To make it yummy, put some milk and ice to prepare a blueberry smoothie so that children are keen to have it. Many children get better soon after having blueberries or smoothies form. For those children with symptoms of nausea, blueberries need to be avoided as these may cause the child to vomit, worsening the condition.
5. Baking Soda
Carbonation is a helpful solution for treating stomach upset. But, carbonated drinks are concentrated with high sugars bad for children that may even alleviate the pain. Instead, parents should offer baking soda as a natural alternative.
Prepare a solution of baking soda using ¼ teaspoon of baking soda in 8 oz of lukewarm water and give it to child with a minimum gap of 8 hours. Be careful that baking soda should not be consumed by the child more than twice a day, until and unless advised by the practitioner.
5. Keep the Child Hydrated
Toddlers can be offered one cup of ginger ale tea, chamomile or mint tea as these are very effective in soothing the aching nerves of the tummy. Offer only unsweetened form of tea as that is more beneficial. In case, child is uncomfortable with herbal teas, offer him/her water to sip every hour to remain hydrated and overcome the illness that has lead to tummy ache.
Totally keep off the greasy and dairy products till tummy is completely free from pain. Even if child feels hungry, offer him/her bland foods like toast, whole wheat and oatmeal. Child experiencing tummy aches associated with vomiting should avoid eating food as the digestive system is affected and that needs to be recovered with fluids alone.
