Abdominal pain is discomfort in the area between your chest and hips. Many people think it only comes from the stomach. However, it can also come from other nearby organs. The pain can be sharp, crampy, or dull. Hence, it may be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).
Most of the time, it often goes away on its own. But in some cases, it may signal a more serious problem that needs medical care.
There are different types of abdominal pain. However, it is based on how quickly it begins and how long it lasts:
This pain starts suddenly. It may happen over a few hours or days. Often, it’s mild and goes away quickly. For example, gas or period cramps can cause it. However, sudden and severe pain could indicate conditions like appendicitis or stomach ulcers.
This pain lasts for three months or more. Additionally, it may come and go. Often, it shows up with other symptoms. For instance, people with Crohn’s disease or ulcers may also have diarrhea.
This type of pain gets worse over time. Often, it comes with other symptoms. These may depend on the cause. In some cases, it may be linked to colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.
This pain comes in waves. Often, it starts and stops suddenly. However, the pain can be sharp and strong. It is common in people with kidney stones or gallstones.
Abdominal pain is very common. It affects people of all ages. In fact, it’s one of the top reasons people go to the doctor or emergency room. Although most cases are mild, some need more attention. Additionally, about 5% of all emergency room visits are related to abdominal pain. This shows how often it happens in medical care.
People with abdominal pain may also have:
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience sudden and severe abdominal pain. In addition, symptoms like fever, vomiting, or dizziness are also warning signs for an underlying health issue.
Yes, stress can contribute to abdominal pain. However, stress management techniques can help ease the symptoms.
Foods that are spicy, fatty, or acidic can exacerbate abdominal pain. Hence, it is advisable to avoid these foods. Additionally, opt for a bland diet until symptoms improve.
If you have these symptoms, go straight to your doctor or the emergency department of the nearest hospital:
Yes, some medications can cause abdominal pain as a side effect. Examples include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and certain supplements. However, if you experience persistent pain after starting a new medication, consult your doctor for alternative treatments.
Constant abdominal discomfort can happen due to constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food allergies, lactose intolerance, food poisoning, stomach flu, gas, and diarrhea.
There are many treatment options for abdominal pain. However, the right one depends on what is causing it. If the pain is mild, home care may be enough. For example, resting, drinking plenty of water, and using a warm compress can help.
You can also try over-the-counter medicine as per your doctor’s advice. In addition, avoiding spicy meals may ease the pain.
However, your doctor may prescribe medication if the pain is more serious. These may include antibiotics or antacids to relax your stomach.
Along with medicine, lifestyle changes are often helpful. For instance, eating smaller meals, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol or caffeine can make a difference. Managing stress through deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can also help reduce pain.
For people with ongoing issues, regular checkups are important. This means seeing your doctor often, checking blood work, and creating your treatment plan as needed. Overall, getting the right care early can help prevent future problems.
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