Abdominal Pain

Abdominal Pain Has a Myriad of Causes, and Some Are Serious

It’s impossible to go through life without experiencing some stomach aches and abdominal pains. Sometimes, stomach pains are caused by indigestion, food sensitivity, or a viral or bacterial infection that can run its course. However, it can also signify a serious condition, including appendicitis, kidney problems, or a tumor.

With so many possibilities, it’s normal to be concerned when experiencing pain in your abdomen. However, you can ease some of your fear by learning when discomfort is and isn’t an emergency. Then, you can go to the emergency room for treatment or recover at home based on your symptoms.

Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain

Are you experiencing lower stomach pain? It might be due to:

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Constipation
• Appendicitis
• Diverticulitis
• Urinary tract infection
• Vascular disease
• Gynecological problems
• Hernias in the groin
• Tumors in the large intestine

Causes of Right Abdominal Pain

Your right stomach pain might be caused by a minor problem or a serious condition. Causes include:

• Appendicitis
• Gas
• Indigestion
• Problems with your kidneys
• Pelvic conditions
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Testicular torsion
• Liver problems
• A hernia that’s penetrated the abdominal muscles

Should I Go to the ER for Abdominal Pain?

While some minor conditions cause pain in the abdominal region, it could also be a sign that you’re dealing with a serious medical condition. Don’t hesitate to go to the ER if you experience any of the following:

• Severe pain that makes it hard to stand
• Bleeding while pregnant
• A fever that’s 102.1 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Loss of consciousness
• Chest pain and vomiting

Your medical history is also a factor when deciding to go to the ER. If your medical history includes any of the following, go to the emergency room:

• You recently had a colonoscopy or endoscopy.
• You have suffered a heart attack or stroke.
• You recently had abdominal surgery, including gastric bypass.

Abdominal Pain and Gastrointestinal Symptoms – Is It an Emergency?

Many people suffer from gastrointestinal issues and pain. Evaluate your symptoms to determine if you need to go to the emergency room.

If you have stomach pain and bloating, you might have irritable bowel syndrome or another condition. These symptoms aren’t usually medical emergencies. However, you do need to consult with your primary care provider.

You also might experience abdominal pain and diarrhea. This is often a symptom of a viral or bacterial infection, the stomach flu, or food sensitivities. While generally not a medical emergency, you should contact your primary care provider. However, go to the emergency room if you have signs of dehydration or your diarrhea has lasted for more than two days. Also, if it comes with a fever, get emergency treatment.

Stomach pain after eating is another common gastrointestinal issue that people face. While this can be caused by food poisoning, spicy foods, the flu, and other issues, it can also be serious. It could be caused by:

• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Crohn’s disease
• Peptic ulcers
• Blocked blood vessel
• Appendicitis

Thus, go to the emergency room if the pain occurs after you finish a meal.

If your pain is related to a serious condition such as appendicitis, it can worsen and cause other problems. Visit the emergency room if your abdominal pain requires immediate care. The emergency staff will diagnose the pain and create a treatment plan to address the underlying cause.