Stomach ache, indigestion, abdominal cramps or pain are symptoms frequently reported to a doctor or pharmacist.
However, these broad terms need to be narrowed down to understand exactly the patient’s complaint. A detailed patient and medical history are required to determine
the probable cause of the problem, and then to select appropriate treatment. Certain types of ‘abdominal pain’ are
serious, and require referral to a doctor. Some complaints will even require surgery. Abdominal pain is a common symptom in children and may often be associated with an infection. OTC treatment is not recommended for abdominal pain of unknown cause and patients should be referred to a doctor.