How we help

Abdominal pain and digestive symptoms are common in childhood—most are benign, but they still need careful assessment. Our paediatric service provides expert evaluation of tummy pain, constipation, diarrhoea, reflux/heartburn, feeding difficulties, bloating, nausea, and suspected food intolerance. We also consider conditions such as functional abdominal pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation-related pain, gastritis/acid reflux, lactose intolerance, coeliac disease, and when appropriate, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Your child will receive a thorough consultation with growth review, dietary and allergy history, examination, and targeted tests only when needed. We can arrange urine dip and culture, stool tests (e.g., calprotectin, infection screens), blood tests (coeliac serology, inflammatory markers, thyroid, iron status), and where indicated, abdominal ultrasound or endoscopy via trusted local providers. We differentiate gastrointestinal from non-gastrointestinal causes and flag rare but important “red flags.”

Personalised care plans may include bowel regimens and constipation management (fibre, fluids, softeners), reflux strategies and medications, dietetic guidance, allergy trials when appropriate, and practical advice for school and activities. We provide clear safety‑netting and follow-up so you know when to seek further help.

• Consultant-led assessment for ages 0–18
• Evidence-based diagnosis and management
• Fast access to tests and imaging
• Clear plans, school-ready letters, and ongoing review

If your child is acutely unwell (severe pain, persistent vomiting, blood in stools, green vomit, or a hard swollen tummy), please seek urgent NHS care. For all other concerns, we are here to help swiftly and compassionately.

Seen in Oxford by a Consultant Paediatrician. Appointments are delivered from our Oxford site by Dr Nicholas Richens, Consultant Paediatrician, for children and young people up to 18. Book directly via our Paediatrics service or learn about our location at Mayfield Clinic Oxford. Same-week availability and coordinated investigations.