First Aid update

Recently, we have seen an increase in students visiting First Aid complaining of stomach aches.

Stomach aches at school

Abdominal pain (pain or cramping in the tummy, belly or stomach) is very common in children and is often not serious. In many cases, children recover on their own without the need for medical treatment.

Signs and symptoms of abdominal pain

Stomach aches can occur suddenly or develop gradually and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as:

• vomiting
• diarrhoea 
• fever.

There are many possible causes of abdominal pain, including illness, constipation, food-related issues, anxiety, or other factors. If your child is experiencing ongoing or severe abdominal pain, it is important to seek medical advice from your family doctor.

For more information about abdominal pain in children, including symptoms, causes and when to seek medical attention, please visit the Royal Children's Hospital Abdominal Pain fact sheet.