colic on one side
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Colicky pain is a crumpy, cramping pain that comes in waves, usually with periods of relief in between. When it happens on one side of the belly or back, it may involve a kidney, bowel, or other organs. This article explains the possible causes in children, when to seek help, and how the condition is usually treated.
Key facts
- Colicky pain is not one disease – it is a symptom that can have many different causes.
- The pain usually comes and goes in waves, but the cause may need urgent treatment.
- A doctor can often find the cause with simple tests such as urine checks and ultrasound.
One-sided colicky pain is a fairly common reason for children to visit a doctor or emergency department, especially if the pain is sudden and strong.
It can affect babies, children, and teenagers. The most likely causes differ with age – for example, a baby with colicky pain may have very different issues than a teenager, so age is an important clue for doctors.
Symptoms
- Sudden, severe pain that does not go away or gets worse
- High fever (any fever in a baby under 3 months)
- Blood in urine or stool
- Repeated vomiting so the child cannot keep any fluids down
- Unusual sleepiness, confusion, or a stiff neck
- Pain after an injury to the belly or back
- ⚠Pain that comes and goes but continues for more than half a day
- ⚠Mild fever with one-sided pain
- ⚠Pain when urinating, or any trouble passing urine
- ⚠A tender spot on one side of the belly or back that you can feel
- ⚠Refusing to eat or drink for many hours
Common symptoms
- Crampy pain on one side of the belly, back, or groin that comes in waves
- Nausea or vomiting, sometimes with retching
- Restlessness or finding it hard to get comfortable
- Pain that eases for a while and then returns
Symptoms in children
- Fussiness, crying, and drawing up their legs (especially in babies)
- Older children may point to one spot and say it 'hurts a lot'
- Loss of appetite or not wanting to drink
- Pain that wakes them from sleep
Causes
Main causes
- Kidney or ureter stones (small hard deposits that form in the urinary tract)
- Constipation with a hard stool in the lower bowel
- Urinary tract infection, especially if it reaches the kidney
- Bowel blockage, such as a twist or intussusception in young children
- Appendicitis – although the pain may start in the middle, it can move to the right side
- Twisting of the testicle (testicular torsion) in boys, or of the ovary (ovarian torsion) in girls – this is an emergency
Risk factors
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Family history of kidney stones
- Diet very high in salt or sugar, or very low in fruits and vegetables
- Chronic constipation
- Certain inherited conditions that affect urine – your doctor can check for these
When to see a doctor
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about the pain, when it started, and whether it comes and goes. They will also feel the belly and back, and check your child's overall appearance and temperature.
Tests that may be done
- Urine test to look for infection, blood, or stone-forming chemicals
- Ultrasound scan of the tummy and kidneys
- Blood test if there is fever or concern about infection
- Sometimes a plain X-ray or CT scan, but only if the doctor strongly suspects a stone, blockage, or other structural problem
What to expect at your appointment
Be ready to describe the pain precisely: where it starts, how strong it is, what makes it better or worse, and whether it prevents your child from sitting still. The doctor may also ask about your child's fluid intake, diet, and family history.
Treatment
Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause. For example, a kidney stone may need fluids and time to pass, while a twisted ovary or testicle needs urgent surgery. Your child's doctor will explain the plan and make sure you know what to look out for.
Self-care at home
- Offer clear fluids such as water, in small sips, frequently
- A warm (not hot) compress on the belly or back may relax the muscles and make the child more comfortable
- Encourage the child to rest in the position they find most comfortable
- When the pain passes and the cause is simple constipation, a gentle diet high in fibre and plenty of drinks can help
- Never give your child any medicine for this pain unless a doctor or pharmacist has approved it
Medical treatments
Medical treatment may include antibiotics for a bacterial infection, fluids given through a drip if a child is dehydrated, or medicines to help pass a kidney stone or relax the urinary tract. These are prescribed by a doctor and will be tailored to the cause. Never give your child medicines meant for adults.
When is surgery considered?
Urgent surgery may be needed for conditions like appendicitis, testicular torsion, or ovarian torsion. If the doctor says this, it means the blood supply or organ is at risk and waiting any longer could cause permanent damage.
Living with this condition
Once an urgent cause has been ruled out, the focus is on keeping your child comfortable and watching for any return of severe symptoms. Keep a simple diary of pain episodes to share with your doctor at follow-up.
Lifestyle tips
- Encourage regular drinks of water throughout the day – older children should have a water bottle they can sip from
- Make sure your child has regular, unhurried potty or toilet time to avoid constipation
- Maintain a balanced routine of physical activity and rest
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and enough fluids helps prevent constipation and may reduce some stone risks. After the acute pain resolves, your child can gradually return to normal activity, but they should avoid heavy activity until they feel completely comfortable.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Repeated pain can be distressing for both the child and the family. It is normal to feel anxious, especially when the cause is not yet known. Talk to your child about what is happening in words they can understand, and be reassuring.
Prevention
Not always, but many cases in children are linked to dehydration and constipation, so encouraging enough fluids and a balanced diet can help. If your child has a condition like recurrent kidney stones, a specialist can give specific prevention advice.
Complications
If left untreated
- A kidney stone can lead to a blocked urinary tract, which can damage the kidney if left for too long
- A twisted testicle or ovary can permanently lose its blood supply within hours
- An infected appendix can burst and cause a severe belly infection
Long-term outlook
With prompt medical care, the outlook for most causes of one-sided colicky pain in children is very good. Many children pass a kidney stone or recover from constipation within a few days, and urgent surgical problems have excellent results when treated early. The key is to act quickly when symptoms are severe.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
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Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.