
What is Abdominal Pain?
What is Abdominal Pain?
Abdominal pain is a sensation of pain in the area between the chest and the pelvis. This part of the body, commonly called the belly area, contains several key organs, including the stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, small and large intestines, and spleen.
At times, abdominal pain may be caused by nearby organs, like the kidneys, uterus, or lower lungs, but the discomfort is felt in the belly. This is known as referred pain. Additionally, pain can originate from the muscles or skin that form the abdominal wall.
Facts About Abdominal Pain
- It’s pain or discomfort located in the body’s trunk, below the ribs, and above the pelvis.
- Causes can stem from inside the abdomen or from nearby organs.
- Pain may result from inflammation, swelling of organs, or restricted blood flow.
- Functional disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can also cause abdominal pain, often without any precise inflammation or blockage.
Frequently Presenting Symptoms in Abdominal Pain
Symptoms commonly experienced alongside abdominal pain include:
- Bloating
- Gas and belching
- Indigestion
- Constipation or diarrhea
- GERD (acid reflux)
- Heartburn
- Pain in specific areas (upper/lower left or right abdomen)
- Chest discomfort
What Causes Abdominal Pain?
A variety of conditions can be behind abdominal pain:
Inflammatory Causes:
- Appendicitis
- Diverticulitis
- Colitis
- Pancreatitis
- Hepatitis
Blockages or Distension:
- Gallstones
- Intestinal obstruction
- Urinary or bile duct blockage
Reduced Blood Flow:
- Ischemic colitis
Functional Conditions:
- IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome): Due to muscle spasms or highly sensitive nerves in the intestines
Other Possible Causes:
- Ulcers, gastritis
- Food poisoning or gas
- Endometriosis (in women)
- Menstrual cramps
- Pregnancy
- Kidney stones
- Abdominal hernias
- Lactose or gluten intolerance
- Trauma or injury
- Abdominal aneurysm
How Do You Diagnose the Cause of Abdominal Pain?
Doctors use a variety of methods to figure out the cause of abdominal pain:
-
Patient History and Symptoms
- Onset: Sudden pain might point to gallstones or intestinal ischemia
- Pattern: Cramping suggests a blockage, while steady pain could indicate inflammation
- Duration: Persistent or recurring pain may suggest IBS or GERD
- Triggers: Could be related to meals, menstruation, or physical activity
- Relief Measures: Does eating, resting, or bowel movement ease the pain?
-
Physical Examination
- Listening for bowel sounds (to detect a blockage)
- Checking for tenderness or a mass
- Looking for signs of inflammation
- Checking for blood in the stool
-
Tests and Imaging
- Blood, urine, and stool tests
- Imaging like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs
- Endoscopy or colonoscopy, if necessary
-
Surgical Exploration
In rare cases, surgery may be needed to determine the cause, especially when a life-threatening condition is suspected.
When to See a Doctor
Seek emergency care if your abdominal pain is:
- Sudden and severe
- Accompanied by fever, vomiting, or blood in the stool
- Making it difficult to breathe
- Ongoing and getting worse over time
Conclusion
Abdominal pain can range from minor and short-lived to severe and potentially life-threatening. A clear and accurate diagnosis depends on understanding your symptoms, a physical exam, and appropriate tests. The sooner the cause is found, the better the chances of adequate relief and recovery.
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