Q: My 6-year-old boy is crying with a stomachache after taking antibiotics. What should I do?
Updated: Sep 7
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:
Hello. My 6-year-old boy is complaining of a stomachache, and it seems to be from the antibiotics he took, rather than him just needing to use the bathroom. He took his medication around 10 PM and later woke up crying, curling up in pain. I am currently applying a warm compress to his stomach. What else should I do to help him?
Answer:
Hello, it must be very concerning to see your child waking up and crying from a stomachache.
Antibiotics can affect the beneficial bacteria in the gut, which frequently causes side effects like abdominal pain or diarrhea. The warm compress you are applying right now is a great method to help soothe the discomfort.
Here are some additional home care steps you can take:
• Have him sip small amounts of warm water frequently.
• Gently massage his stomach in a clockwise direction.
• Help him bend his knees toward his chest and then straighten them out (this movement helps release trapped gas).
• Give him probiotics to support his gut, but make sure to administer them at least 2 hours apart from the antibiotic dose.
⚠️ Please seek immediate medical evaluation if you notice any of the following:
→ The severe abdominal pain lasts for more than 2 hours.
→ He develops bloody stools or severe diarrhea.
→ The pain is accompanied by vomiting.
→ His abdomen becomes hard, rigid, or severely bloated.
Generally, it is important to finish the prescribed course of antibiotics to properly treat the underlying infection. However, if he continues to have stomachaches in the morning, please contact the doctor who prescribed the medication to discuss whether you should change the antibiotic or if additional medication is needed to soothe his stomach.
For now, let him rest in whatever position feels most comfortable for him, and do not force him to eat any food. I hope your child feels better soon!
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
