Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain, also known as stomach pain, is a common symptom that can occur anywhere between the chest and pelvis. It can range from a mild ache to severe pain and can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Abdominal pain can have many causes, some of which may require medical attention. If you are experiencing persistent or severe abdominal pain, contact Digestive System Healthcare to consult with our specialists for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment.
What are the causes of abdominal pain?
Abdominal pain can result from various factors, including:
- Digestive issues:
- Indigestion or gas
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Food intolerances or allergies
- Infections:
- Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
- Appendicitis
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Chronic conditions:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
- Peptic ulcers
- Gallstones or gallbladder disease
- Liver disease, including hepatitis
- Pancreatitis
- Other factors:
- Menstrual cramps
- Stress or anxiety
- Abdominal injuries
When should you seek medical help for abdominal pain?
While some abdominal pain can be managed with home remedies, it’s important to seek medical attention if you experience:
- Severe or worsening pain
- Pain that lasts more than a few days
- Pain accompanied by fever, chills, or vomiting
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Unexplained weight loss
- Difficulty breathing
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Pain during pregnancy
How is abdominal pain diagnosed?
Diagnosing the cause of abdominal pain involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and potentially several diagnostic tests. Some common tests include:
- Blood tests to check for infections, inflammation, or organ function
- Urine tests to detect urinary tract infections or other issues
- Imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans to visualize internal organs
- Endoscopy or colonoscopy to examine the digestive tract
- Stool tests to check for infections, inflammation, or blood
What are the treatment options for abdominal pain?
Treatment for abdominal pain depends on the underlying cause and may include:
- Dietary changes:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoiding trigger foods (such as fatty, spicy, or acidic foods)
- Increasing fiber intake to prevent constipation
- Medications:
- Antacids or acid reducers for GERD or indigestion
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Antispasmodics for IBS
- Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications
- Lifestyle modifications:
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, or counseling
- Staying hydrated
- Regular physical activity
- Surgical interventions:
- Surgery may be necessary for conditions such as appendicitis, gallstones, or hernias
For more information about managing abdominal pain and its underlying causes, contact Digestive System Healthcare to schedule a consultation with our specialists.