Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain is a common problem with causes ranging from digestive issues to serious medical conditions that need urgent care.
Possible causes
Indigestion, food intolerance (e.g., lactose intolerance), or food poisoning
- Viral stomach flu (gastroenteritis)
- Appendicitis, gallstones, or pancreatitis
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Gynaecological issues (e.g., menstrual pain, endometriosis) or urinary tract diseases
Should I see a doctor?
Most abdominal pain is temporary and resolves on its own. However, you should see a doctor as soon as possible if the pain is sudden and severe, or if it is accompanied by a high fever, vomiting, bloody stool, or a general feeling of being unwell. You should also see a doctor if the pain is long-term, recurrent, interferes with your daily life, or if you experience unexplained weight loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does abdominal pain suggest appendicitis?
Pain that suggests appendicitis usually starts around the navel and moves to the lower right abdomen over a few hours, becoming sharp and constant. It is often accompanied by nausea and a low-grade fever. If you suspect you have appendicitis, you must seek medical attention immediately.
Can stress cause abdominal pain?
Yes, stress and anxiety can cause or worsen functional abdominal problems, such as the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Stress affects the connection between the gut and the brain, which can disrupt normal digestion.
How can I relieve mild, temporary abdominal pain at home?
For mild pain, it can help to rest, drink plenty of fluids (water, herbal tea), and eat easily digestible foods. You should avoid fatty, spicy, and hard-to-digest foods. Over-the-counter antispasmodics are also available, but long-term use without consulting a doctor is not recommended.
What is the difference between common abdominal pain and acute abdominal pain?
Common abdominal pain is often mild and goes away on its own, caused by something like indigestion. Acute abdominal pain, however, is a sudden, intense, and persistent pain that points to a potentially life-threatening condition and requires urgent medical evaluation.
What tests are done to find the cause of abdominal pain?
Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may order blood and stool tests, an ultrasound scan, a gastroscopy (an examination of the stomach with a tube), or a colonoscopy (an examination of the bowel) to find the exact cause of the pain.
