Abdominal Pain

What causes abdominal pain?

Abdominal pain has a wide range of potential causes, including:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Gastroenteritis
• Acid reflux
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Crohn’s disease
• Lactose intolerance
• Kidney stones
• Gallbladder stones
• Appendicitis

Abdominal pain varies in duration and severity. For example, if you have temporary constipation, your discomfort passes after you have a bowel movement. Alternatively, appendicitis can cause severe acute pain that sends you to an emergency room for help. 

When should I talk to a doctor about abdominal pain?

You should make an appointment at Northern Medical Group Gastroenterology Division if you have persistent or disruptive abdominal pain. Some of the symptoms that indicate the need for medical assessment include:

• Dull pain that persists for a week or longer
• Severe pain that doesn’t go away within two days
• Pain that becomes more severe or frequent
• Pain accompanied by unintended weight loss

You should also make an appointment if you have diarrhea for more than five consecutive days or have blood in your urine or stool. 

How is the cause of abdominal pain diagnosed?

The board-certified gastroenterologists at Northern Medical Group Gastroenterology Division begin your diagnosis by reviewing your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They also complete a physical examination, checking your abdomen for swelling and tenderness.

When necessary, they use additional testing to confirm the cause of your abdominal pain. Your physician might order an endoscopy, colonoscopy, or an imaging test like an ultrasound, MRI, or X-ray. 

How is abdominal pain treated?

Treatment for abdominal pain depends on its root cause. For example, suppose you have Crohn’s disease, IBS, GERD, or lactose intolerance. In that case, your provider can prescribe medication and help you adjust your diet to lessen irritation and inflammation in your digestive tract and relieve your symptoms.

In more severe situations, your doctor might recommend a surgical procedure to repair your digestive tract. For example, if you have a burst appendix or chronic diverticulitis, an operation might be your best option. 

Additionally, if diet and lifestyle changes don’t relieve your GERD symptoms, your doctor might suggest fundoplication to strengthen your lower esophageal sphincter. 

Don’t ignore severe or persistent abdominal pain. Call Northern Medical Group Gastroenterology Division today or make an appointment online for expert diagnosis and treatment.