Q: My 6-year-old son has had a stomachache and constant cold sweats for 13 hours. What could be wrong?

Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD

Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD

This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Question:

My 6-year-old son has been complaining of pain around and just above his belly button for the past 13 hours. The pain seems to come and go. Also, he is experiencing constant cold sweats! I've had to change his clothes and wipe him down several times, but the sweating won't stop. I'm panicked because I've never seen him have cold sweats for 13 hours straight. His stool is normal, and there is no vomiting. I thought it might be indigestion, but the cold sweating is excessive. What could be wrong?

Answer:

⚠️ This is a situation that requires urgent medical attention.

A stomachache lasting for 13 hours combined with constant cold sweats can indicate a more serious condition. Constant cold sweating is a physiological signal that the body is reacting to severe pain. Even though his bowel movements are normal, conditions like appendicitis or intussusception can present with normal stools in their early stages.

Please observe your child for the following warning signs:

• Does his stomach feel hard, or does it hurt more when pressed?

• Is he holding his stomach or hunching over when walking?

• Does he have a fever? (Please check his temperature).

You should visit an emergency room immediately because:

• He has had a combination of abdominal pain and continuous cold sweats for 13 hours.

• The pain is located around the belly button, which can be an early symptom of appendicitis.

• The symptoms are severe enough to cause unusual distress.

When heading to the hospital:

• Note the time and contents of his last meal so you can inform the medical staff.

• Try to recall if the location of the pain has shifted over time.

• Keep the child fasting (do not give him any food or water) in case he needs immediate treatment or imaging.

It is safest to take him to the emergency room for an in-person medical evaluation right away.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

fevercoach.us

Apple App Store

Google Play

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