Abdominal Pain – Gastroenterology

Abdominal Pain – Gastroenterology

Overview

Abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons for seeking medical care. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may be a symptom of various gastrointestinal conditions. Understanding the nature, location, and associated symptoms of abdominal pain helps in diagnosing the underlying cause and determining the appropriate treatment.

Common Symptoms of Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can present in different ways depending on the underlying condition. Some of the most common symptoms include:

1. Nature of Pain

• Sharp or Stabbing Pain – May indicate gallstones, kidney stones, or appendicitis.
• Dull or Aching Pain – Common in conditions like gastritis or indigestion.
• Cramping Pain – Often associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or menstrual cramps.
• Burning Pain – Could be due to acid reflux or peptic ulcers.

2. Location of Pain

• Upper Abdominal Pain – May indicate acid reflux, gastritis, or gallbladder issues.
• Lower Abdominal Pain – Often linked to bowel disorders such as IBS, diverticulitis, or gynecological conditions.
• Right-Sided Abdominal Pain – Could be due to liver disease, gallbladder issues, or appendicitis.
• Left-Sided Abdominal Pain – May suggest conditions like diverticulitis or spleen disorders.
• Generalized Pain – Can be caused by gas, indigestion, or food poisoning.

3. Associated Symptoms

• Nausea and Vomiting – Common in gastritis, food poisoning, or gallbladder disease.
• Diarrhea or Constipation – Suggestive of IBS, infections, or food intolerances.
• Bloating and Gas – Often related to digestive disorders or lactose intolerance.
• Fever and Chills – May indicate an infection such as appendicitis or gastroenteritis.
• Blood in Stool or Vomit – Requires urgent medical attention as it may indicate ulcers, internal bleeding, or cancer.
• Unexplained Weight Loss – Can be a sign of chronic gastrointestinal diseases like Crohn’s disease or even gastrointestinal cancer.

When to Seek Medical Attention?

While occasional mild abdominal pain can be managed at home, seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Severe, persistent pain lasting more than a few hours.
• Pain accompanied by high fever.
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain.
• Blood in stool or vomit.
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice).
• Sudden, sharp pain that spreads to other parts of the body.

Possible Causes of Abdominal Pain

• Digestive Issues: Acid reflux, gastritis, indigestion, food intolerances.
• Infections: Gastroenteritis, food poisoning, parasitic infections.
• Inflammatory Conditions: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis.
• Organ-Specific Issues: Appendicitis, gallstones, kidney stones, liver disease.
• Surgical Emergencies: Intestinal obstruction, perforated ulcers, ruptured appendix.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Our Gastroenterology Department is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, including:

• Endoscopy & Colonoscopy – To examine the stomach and intestines.
• Ultrasound & CT Scan – For imaging organs like the liver, gallbladder, and intestines.
• Blood Tests – To check for infections, liver function, and inflammatory markers.
• Stool & Urine Analysis – To detect infections and digestive disorders.

Treatment Options

• Medications – Antacids, antibiotics, pain relievers, or anti-inflammatory drugs based on the diagnosis.
• Lifestyle Modifications – Dietary changes, stress management, and hydration.
• Surgical Interventions – If necessary, for conditions like appendicitis, gallstones, or hernias.

Conclusion

Abdominal pain can have many causes, ranging from minor issues to serious medical conditions. If you experience persistent or severe pain, our expert gastroenterologists are here to provide a thorough evaluation and effective treatment.

For appointments or emergency care, contact us today!