Red flags & when to go in person for Abdominal Pain (Mild) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Mild abdominal pain in children is common and often caused by minor issues like indigestion or mild infections. Most mild pain can be safely evaluated through telemedicine, where a healthcare provider asks about symptoms and guides care. However, some signs mean the child needs to be seen in person promptly. These include severe or worsening pain, persistent vomiting, high fever, or signs of dehydration. Telemedicine can help decide when to watch symptoms at home and when to seek urgent care. Parents and caregivers should observe the child's overall behavior, pain location, and any new symptoms. This guide helps families understand when mild abdominal pain can be managed remotely and when in-person evaluation is necessary to keep children safe and healthy.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain lasting more than a few hours
• Persistent vomiting preventing fluid intake
• High fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) with abdominal pain

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of mild abdominal pain without red flags
• Guidance on home care and symptom monitoring
• Advice on when to seek in-person care

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain needing physical examination
• Signs of dehydration requiring urgent treatment
• Suspected surgical emergencies like appendicitis

Understanding Mild Abdominal Pain in Children

Mild abdominal pain is common in children and usually not serious. It can come from simple causes like gas, constipation, or minor stomach infections. Often, the pain improves with rest, hydration, and time. Watching your child’s symptoms closely helps decide if medical care is needed.

When to Use Telemedicine for Mild Abdominal Pain

Telemedicine visits allow healthcare providers to assess your child’s symptoms through video or phone calls. This can be helpful for mild pain without other worrying signs. Providers can ask questions about the pain, check for other symptoms, and advise on home care or if further evaluation is needed.

Red Flags That Require In-Person Care

Certain signs mean your child should be seen in person quickly:

If any of these occur, seek urgent medical care.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before the tele-visit, gather information to help the provider:

This preparation helps the provider give the best advice.

After the Telemedicine Visit: What to Expect

After the visit, follow the provider’s instructions carefully. This may include:

If new red flags appear, seek in-person care immediately.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the start time and pattern of abdominal pain
• Observe and record any additional symptoms (fever, vomiting, diarrhea)
• Have your child's recent medical history and medications ready
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space for the telemedicine visit
• Prepare to describe your child's overall behavior and appetite

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on home care
• Monitor your child’s symptoms closely for any changes
• Keep your child hydrated and rested
• Schedule follow-up visits if recommended
• Seek immediate in-person care if red flags develop

FAQs

Can mild abdominal pain in children be serious?

Most mild abdominal pain in children is not serious and often improves with simple care. However, some symptoms like severe pain, persistent vomiting, or high fever may indicate a more serious condition and require prompt medical evaluation.

When should I take my child to the emergency room for abdominal pain?

If your child has severe or worsening pain, cannot keep fluids down, has a high fever, shows signs of dehydration, or has blood in vomit or stool, you should seek emergency care immediately.

What can I do at home to help my child with mild abdominal pain?

Encourage your child to rest and drink plenty of fluids. Offer small, bland meals if they feel hungry. Avoid giving any medicines without consulting a healthcare provider first.

Is it safe to use telemedicine for my child's abdominal pain?

Telemedicine can be a safe and convenient way to evaluate mild abdominal pain when there are no red flags. A healthcare provider can help decide if your child needs to be seen in person or can be managed at home.

Sources

1. Abdominal Pain in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Evaluation of Abdominal Pain in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Abdominal Pain in Children: When to See a Doctor — Mayo Clinic.
4. Abdominal Pain in Children: Diagnosis and Management — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation and care. If your child has any concerning symptoms or red flags, seek immediate medical attention.