Stomach Ache in Children in Singapore: What’s Normal and When to See a Doctor
- Oaklife Family Clinic
- 6 minutes ago
- 5 min read
Stomach ache is one of the most common complaints in children and a frequent reason parents seek medical advice.
A child may point to their tummy before school, complain of pain after meals, or wake at night saying their stomach hurts. Sometimes the discomfort settles quickly. Other times, it keeps coming back, leaving parents unsure whether this is something minor or a sign of illness.
In Singapore, stomach ache in children is a common concern from toddlerhood through the school years. This guide explains common causes of tummy pain, what is usually normal, and when it is important to see a doctor.
What Parents Need to Know
Children’s digestive systems are still developing, and their daily routines change frequently. Diet, bowel habits, activity levels, emotional stress and exposure to infections can all affect the gut.
Younger children may also struggle to describe pain clearly. A “tummy ache” can mean bloating, constipation, hunger, or discomfort linked to anxiety or tiredness. This uncertainty is why stomach ache often causes worry for parents.
Common Causes of Stomach Ache in Children in Singapore
Not all stomach aches are due to illness. Some of the more common causes seen in our clinic include:
Constipation, one of the most frequent reasons for recurrent tummy pain
Gas or bloating, especially after meals
Minor viral infections, which may cause short-lived abdominal discomfort
Diet-related issues, such as overeating or sudden changes in food
Stress or anxiety, particularly in older children
In many cases, tummy pain related to digestion or bowel habits comes and goes and improves with simple measures.
When a Stomach Ache Is Likely Mild
A stomach ache is more likely to be mild if it:
comes and goes
does not stop your child from playing
improves after passing stool or gas
is not associated with fever, vomiting or diarrhoea
In these situations, observation, rest and fluids are often sufficient.
When tummy pain occurs together with diarrhoea or vomiting, infection becomes more likely.
Acute diarrhoea in children is commonly caused by viral gastroenteritis, especially among those attending childcare or school. Diarrhoea in children is often due to infections and should be monitored for hydration status and worsening symptoms.
If your child has stomach ache together with frequent loose stools, vomiting, or reduced urine output, medical review is recommended.
How this differs from stomach flu
Stomach flu usually refers to viral gastroenteritis, where tummy pain is accompanied by diarrhoea, vomiting, fever and fatigue. In these cases, hydration and overall well-being become key concerns.
However, many children experience stomach ache without vomiting or diarrhoea. Constipation, digestion issues, gas or stress can all cause tummy pain on their own. Understanding this difference helps parents decide when observation is reasonable and when a clinic visit is needed.
Parents who are worried about vomiting or diarrhoea alongside tummy pain may find further guidance in our article on stomach flu in children.
Stomach Ache with Fever
Stomach ache together with fever should not be ignored.
Fever may indicate infection, such as a viral illness, urinary tract infection or other inflammatory causes. If your child has tummy pain and a documented fever, it is important not to assume this is due to digestion alone.
According to Singhealth guidance, persistent or severe abdominal pain should be medically assessed rather than observed at home.
Is It Constipation, Infection, or Something Else?
Parents often ask how to tell what is causing their child’s stomach ache.
Constipation often causes recurrent pain, bloating, and infrequent or hard stools
Infections may cause tummy pain together with fever, vomiting or diarrhoea
Functional or stress-related pain may occur around school time or bedtime and improve with reassurance
If tummy pain keeps recurring or affects daily activities, a medical assessment can help clarify the cause.
A Common Clinic Scenario Parents Can Relate To
A three-year-old toddler was brought to the clinic by his mother after complaining of a tummy ache on and off throughout the day. He had been eating less than usual and seemed more irritable, but had no vomiting or diarrhoea.
During the consultation, Dr Jacquelyn explained that at this age, stomach aches are often caused by common issues such as constipation, gas, or mild viral illnesses. She shared what parents should watch for at home, including whether the pain was persistent, whether it worsened over time, and whether new symptoms developed.
She also outlined clear signs that would require urgent review or a visit to the emergency department, such as severe or worsening abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, high fever, marked lethargy, or pain so intense that the child curled up and refused to move. In the absence of these red flags, careful observation, fluids and monitoring bowel habits were advised.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should arrange a medical review if your child’s stomach ache:
lasts more than 24 hours
keeps coming back over several days or weeks
is associated with fever, vomiting or diarrhoea
wakes your child from sleep
causes poor appetite, weight loss or lethargy
is severe or worsening
If you are unsure, it is always appropriate to seek medical advice. A simple assessment can provide reassurance or identify a problem early.
How We Support Children with Stomach Ache
At Oaklife Family Clinic, we regularly assess children who present with tummy pain. During the consultation, our doctors take time to understand your child’s symptoms, eating patterns and bowel habits, and to examine for signs of infection or dehydration. We also help distinguish between functional abdominal pain and illnesses that require treatment, and provide clear advice on safe home care, follow-up and when to seek further review.
CHAS-approved consultations are available for eligible families.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stomach Ache in Children
Q: Is stomach ache common in children?
A: Yes. Mild stomach ache is common and often related to digestion, bowel habits or minor illnesses.
Q: Can constipation really cause tummy pain?
A: Yes. Constipation is one of the most common causes of recurrent abdominal pain in children.
Q: When is a stomach ache serious?
A: Pain with fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy or persistent worsening symptoms should be medically assessed.
Q: Should I see a doctor even if the pain comes and goes?
A: If the pain keeps recurring or affects daily activities, a medical review is appropriate.
Visit Oaklife Family Clinic Today
If your child has ongoing or concerning stomach ache, a medical review can help determine the cause and provide reassurance.
Visit Oaklife Family Clinic – CHAS-approved.
📍 592G Balestier Road, Singapore 329902
📞 6980 8568
