India, May 24 -- My five-year-old has been complaining of repeated stomach pain for the last few months. The pain usually comes and goes on its own, and he is otherwise active and playful. What could be the reason for this, and what should we do? Stomach pain is one of the most common health complaints seen in children. The reassuring part is that, in most cases, it is not caused by a serious disease. Many children experience occasional tummy aches as part of growing up, changes in eating habits, mild infections, constipation, poor sleep or even stress and anxiety. However, understanding when the pain is harmless and when it needs medical attention is important for every parent. The pain may be felt anywhere between the chest and the lower abdomen. Sometimes it lasts only for a short while, while in some children it keeps returning over weeks or months. Studies suggest that nearly 1 in 9 children worldwide experience repeated stomach pain without any major disease being identified (1). A recent school-based study from Northern India also showed that tummy-related complaints without a clear medical cause are quite common among children and adolescents (2). One of the most common reasons behind recurrent stomach pain in children is what experts now call Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI), earlier known as functional gastrointestinal disorders. These are conditions in which children experience real and distressing symptoms, even though routine tests and scans may appear normal. Experts now understand that the gut and brain are closely connected and constantly communicate with each other. In some children, the intestines become extra sensitive, so even normal digestion, gas movement, or stretching of the bowel may be perceived as pain. Importantly, the pain is genuine and not 'made up,' even when no serious disease is found. Constipation is another common and often missed cause. Many children do not clearly complain of difficulty passing stools, so parents may not realise it is the actual reason behind the pain. Poor water intake, low-fibre diets, excess junk food, difficulty digesting dairy, irregular meals, and low physical activity can all contribute. At times, common infections such as viral stomach infections, urine infections, or worm infestations can also cause stomach pain. These are usually accompanied by symptoms like fever, vomiting, loose stools, reduced appetite, or tiredness. Fortunately, these episodes are generally short-lasting and improve with proper care. While most stomach pain in children is harmless, there are certain warning signs parents should not ignore, as they may point towards an underlying medical condition that needs evaluation: In most children, paediatricians can identify the likely cause through a detailed discussion and physical examination. Understanding the pattern of pain, bowel habits, eating routine, school-related stress, and associated symptoms often provides more useful information than extensive investigations. Most children with recurrent abdominal pain do not require multiple tests unless warning signs are present. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, but simple lifestyle measures are often effective. Regular meals, good hydration, adequate fibre intake, outdoor activity, proper sleep, and reducing excessive junk food can improve symptoms. Parents should also remember that emotional wellbeing plays an important role in gut health. Supportive open conversations and reducing unnecessary pressure can often help children feel better. In some children with persistent symptoms, relaxation techniques or counselling-based approaches may also be recommended. The most important message for parents is reassurance: most recurrent stomach pain in children is not dangerous. With patience, attention to healthy routines, and timely medical advice when warning signs appear, the majority of children improve well. (1) Koen Vermeijden N et al. Epidemiology of Pediatric Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders: A Meta-Analysis. Pediatrics. 2025 (2) Jabeen D et al. A prevalence study of functional gastrointestinal disorders among the school-going adolescent population in an urban city in northern India. Clinical Epidemiology and Global Health 28 (2024) Dr Anupam Sibal is a leading Paediatric Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist with over three decades of experience and five books to his credit, including the national bestseller Is Your Child Ready to Face the World?...