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The main symptom of this condition is pain near the belly button, though it can occur anywhere between the chest and the pelvis. The pain may begin slowly or suddenly and may be intermittent.

 

Other symptoms include:

 

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • A feeling of fullness after eating just a few bites
  • Pain with bowel movements
  • Upset stomach
  • Increased stool frequency >2-3 a day especially when persistent
  • Diarrhea

 

While functional abdominal pain is common and not life-threatening, children should see their doctor if they have any of these symptoms:

 

  • Weight loss
  • Blood in the stools or vomit
  • Fever
  • Joint pain
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Pain with urination
  • Pain that wakes them up at night or keeps them from their typical activities, such as going to school or playing with friends