Causes Of Abdominal Pain
The answer to what is causing your abdominal pain depends on the underlying condition. Causes of abdominal pain can include numerous conditions, such as:
- Gynecological issues such as fibroids and cysts
- Vascular conditions
It is important to find out what causes your pain, as there are many potential causes. At The Pain Center, we can help diagnose the cause to help you find relief.
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Acute Vs Chronic Vs Progressive
Acute abdominal pain usually comes on suddenly and is sharp/severe. It may improve within a few hours to a few days, depending on the cause. If sudden-onset pain lasts longer than this, you should see a doctor. You should also see a doctor or go to the emergency room if the pain worsens rapidly or you begin to experience fevers, severe or worsening nausea/vomiting, or diarrhea. Examples of acute abdominal pain can include gastrointestinal infection , appendicitis , cholecystitis , or an obstruction of your colon or small intestine.
Chronic abdominal pain is recurring and can come and go away without really worsening over a period of time. Chronic pain can be present for months or years at a time. You should always mention chronic stomach pain to your doctor or a healthcare provider. It can be a symptom of an underlying condition that needs treatment, or you can get help reducing pain and improving your quality of life. Examples of medical conditions that can cause chronic pain include certain types of hernias, celiac disease , irritable bowel syndrome , constipation, pain related to the menstrual cycle, or peptic ulcer disease.
Stomach pain may also come in waves, called colicky pain. It can feel like spasms and may repeat over days, weeks, or years. This is frequently caused by kidney stones and gallstones .
What Causes Upper Stomach Pain
Potential causes of upper stomach pain include:
- Obstruction of the bowel
While the ailment has many causes, the nature of your discomfort gradual or sudden, aching or sharp can indicate to your doctor what is causing your upper stomach pain. Depending on your diagnosis, your doctor will prescribe an appropriate treatment.
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When To Contact A Clinician
Persistent or severe abdominal pain, especially if unrelieved by vomiting or passing a bowel movement
Fever greater than 101 degrees F, not relieved by acetaminophen, or any fever that lasts more than three days
Vomiting or diarrhea without any improvement for more 24 hours
Blood in vomit or stools
No urination for more than 8 hours, or painful urination
> > > 1 Unlikely Stretch Wipes Out Sciatica
Surgical interventions to correct spinal deformity include spinal fusion, which is a surgical procedure that uses bone graft to replace a disc. After undergoing surgery, your back will require physical therapy for three to six months. In addition to doctors and dentists, you can also see neurologists, physiatrists, and chiropractors. These specialists specialize in the brain and spinal cord disorders. They are often the best choice for patients seeking treatment for back pain.
Non-specific back pain is usually not diagnosed until the pain is long-term. There is no clear cause for non-specific back pain, but doctors should seek a diagnosis to treat the condition. It is important to visit a specialist for treatment in order to get the best treatment options. If the pain is chronic or has no specific cause, a doctor will perform diagnostic imaging to help identify the exact source of the pain. Further, they can perform MRIs to help diagnose underlying conditions.
While back pain is a common ailment, it can also be caused by something else. Many people experience sciatica or other pain in the leg, and a slipped disc could be the cause. Other types of back pain may be more acute, such as a herniated disc. For nonspecific back pain, a doctor may need to perform radiological imaging to diagnose the exact cause of the pain.
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Where Can Breast Cancer Spread
The most common places for breast cancer to spread to are the lymph nodes, bone, liver, lungs and brain. The symptoms you may experience will depend on where in the body the cancer has spread to. You might not have all of the symptoms mentioned here.
Remember other conditions can cause these symptoms. They dont necessarily mean that you have cancer that has spread. But if you have symptoms that you are worried about, discuss them with your GP, cancer specialist, or breast care nurse so that you can be checked.
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Using Alcoholic Bitters To Relieve Stomach Pain
You may raise an eyebrow, but did you know that alcoholic bitters can naturally relieve stomach pain?
Many common brands of bitters contain a mix of mint, ginger, cinnamon, and fennel, all of which are known to help ease stomach pain in one form or another. Five to six drops in a glass of club soda or ginger ale might surprise you.
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Best Positions For Easing Stomach Pain When Lying
It is not easy to lie down while the stomach is paining. But lying in the recommended posture may help you. Make sure that you are wearing loose cloth when your stomach hurt. It is good to choose the left side for sleeping as it helps in digestion and bowel movements. It is an easy posture for your reproductive system too. If you are lying on your back, see that a pillow is supporting your pelvic area.
Prevention Of Abdominal Pain
In many cases, abdominal pain can be prevented by adopting lifestyle and dietary choices that address the cause of your pain. Constipation, digestive upset, and even abdominal injury can often be prevented.
The following steps may help you prevent abdominal pain:
Drink plenty of water.
Develop regular bowel habits. Many people can train themselves to have regular bowel movements to help avoid constipation.
Follow a balanced, fiber-filled diet. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods, like whole grains, can help support healthy digestion and reduce constipation.
Eat regularly and slowly. Eating moderately-sized meals, instead of waiting until youre very hungry and stuffing yourself, can help avoid pain from overeating or eating on an empty stomach.
Exercise regularly. Getting enough physical activity can help prevent constipation and strengthen your abdominal muscles, which may help prevent straining.
Wear a seatbelt properly.
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How To Manage Stomach Pain
If your stomach pain is not severe or long-lasting, and if you’re not having symptoms like those mentioned above, the pain may go away on its own.
This pain is often caused by minor problems such as constipation, gas, or something you ate. Waiting a few hours, having a bowel movement, or passing gas may help.
Try taking these steps:
- Limit yourself to clear liquids for a few hours.
- If you have vomiting or diarrhea, stick with the BRAT diet. Eat mild foods until you feel better.
- Avoid foods that are hard to digest. Fatty, fried, or spicy foods can cause stomach pain. So can drinks containing alcohol or caffeine.
- Try an over-the-counter antacid or a product to relieve gas.
- Try to have a bowel movement. Eating raw fruit, vegetables, beans, or high-fiber cereal can help.
- Use a hot water bottle or heating pad. Place the pad on your abdomen for a half hour at a time, with a towel under the pad to protect your skin.
Your symptoms may improve within a day or two. If they do not, call your healthcare provider.
Does Your Child Need To See A Doctor About Stomach Pain
You should take your child to see your GP if your child:
- complains of severe pain in the tummy or it wakes them from sleep
- has tummy pain that doesnt go away, or that keeps coming and going
- is unwell or has a fever in addition to the pain
- complains that the pain gets worse when they move
- has diarrhoea or vomiting that doesnt go away
- is losing weight or has pain that affects their energy levels.
Take your child to a hospital emergency department straight away if your child has:
- bloody or green vomit
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What Is Abdominal Pain Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment And Prevention
Most people experience abdominal discomfort or pain at some point in their lives. Abdominal pain is usually felt in the part of the trunk below the ribs, above the pelvis and the groin. It can range in intensity from a mild ache to severe, disabling pain.
While abdominal pain isnt normal, it isnt necessarily serious, and it often resolves itself.
See Your Doctor As Soon As Possible If:
- your pain is no better after 2 hours of home care
- your abdomen is very painful
- your pain gets worse over time, or becomes sharper or stronger in one particular place
- your abdomen feels bloated or sticks out more than usual
- you cant stop vomiting
- you havent had a bowel motion or passed wind for 3 days
- youve lost your appetite
- there is blood in your vomit, urine or bowel motion, or vaginal bleeding that isnt a period.
You also need to see your doctor if you have other symptoms along with the pain such as fever or dizziness especially if those symptoms get worse over time or new symptoms develop.
Call Healthline if you are unsure what you should do.
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Remedies And Treatments For Stomach Pain
Stomach pains â also known as stomachaches, tummy aches, and bellyaches â can range from mildly annoying to painfully incapacitating. It can be caused by a food allergy, indigestion, or eating something that has gone bad. Or it can be something more serious like an ulcer, Crohnâs disease, or stomach cancer.
At home, there are things you can do, and things you can take, to potentially alleviate your stomach pain.
Use a Heating Pad
A simple remedy is to place a heating pad where it hurts on your stomach. The heat relaxes your outer stomach muscles and promotes movement in the digestive tract. Lying down usually works best. Keep it on your stomach for 15 minutes.
Draw a Hot Bath
Similar to a heating pad, the warm, soothing effect of a hot bath not only relaxes the stomach area, but it also relaxes the rest of your body. Once the water temperature is to your liking, soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
Get Some Sleep
A recent study found that digestive disruptions can be directly tied to lack of sleep. Getting a full nightâs rest improves the overall health of your body and can help ease any stomach pains you may be experiencing.
Donât Overeat
Chamomile Tea
This ancient brew has been used for countless homeopathic remedies for centuries, and it is especially effective in soothing an upset stomach. Its anti-inflammatory properties help your stomach muscles relax, which can reduce cramp and spasm pains.
Ginger
Peppermint
Soda Water
Types Of Abdominal Pain
Not all abdominal pain is the same.
For example, if youre experiencing acute abdominal pain, youve most likely only been dealing with the discomfort for about a week, maybe less.
Chronic abdominal pain, on the other hand, is pain thats constant or recurring. It lasts for a period of 3 months or longer.
Since there are a number of gastrointestinal and systemic disorders that lead to abdominal pain, doctors and healthcare professionals sometimes have a hard time understanding the root cause of the pain.
Progressive abdominal pain is pain that gets worse over time.
Typically other symptoms occur as the abdominal pain progresses.
Progressive abdominal pain is often a sign of something more serious.
Read on to learn more about the different types of abdominal pain, including what and where the pain occurs and potential causes.
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Try It Steps To Avoid Gas Pain
Since constipation causes gas and cramping, you should try to exercise regularly, stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet with plenty of fiber, Veloso says.Here are some other tips:
- Dont drink with a straw.
- Choose noncarbonated beverages.
- If your symptoms persist, see your doctor to rule out food sensitivities, and other conditions.
Urgent Advice: Speak To Your Gp As Soon As Possible If:
- you have severe abdominal pain, especially if it’s concentrated in one area
- the pain starts suddenly or unexpectedly
If your GP is closed, phone 111.
Serious causes of sudden severe abdominal pain include:
- appendicitis the swelling of the appendix means your appendix will need to be removed
- a bleeding or perforated stomach ulcer
- acute cholecystitis inflammation of the gallbladder, which may need to be removed
- kidney stones small stones may be passed out in your urine, but larger stones may block the kidney tubes, and you’ll need to go to hospital to have them broken up
- diverticulitis inflammation of the small pouches in the bowel that sometimes requires treatment with antibiotics in hospital
If your GP suspects you have one of these conditions, they may refer you to hospital immediately.
Sudden and severe pain in your abdomen can also sometimes be caused by an infection of the stomach and bowel . It may also be caused by a pulled muscle in your abdomen or by an injury.
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Drink Prune Juice To Relieve Stomach Pain
Stomach pain from constipation tends to radiate from the lower part of your abdomen and sometimes features a periodic shifting or gurgling feeling accompanied by a temporary spike in pain.
When constipation is your cause, consider a glass of prune juice or another type of laxative. If effective, you can expect to experience sudden relief.
Can Abdominal Pain Be Prevented
Eating enough fibreand doing regular exercise can help prevent constipation and keep your bowels working well, which will prevent some forms of abdominal pain. It will also reduce your long-term risk of some diseases, such as diverticular disease or bowel cancer.
Drinking plain water but not carbonated or fizzy drinks will reduce the chance of pain from bloating as well as keeping your body healthy.
Following a specific diet can help reduce pain due to lactose intolerance, gallstones, irritable bowel syndrome and trapped gas, or wind.
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Different Causes Of Stomach Pain
Your health care provider will not neglect your stomach pain as it can be a symptom of different health issues.
Most commonly stomach pain is not serious. Menstruation, infection, and digestion are the major areas of concern when it comes to stomach pain. Inflammation in a different part of the body can cause severe stomach pain. Acidity, Urinary tract infection, ulcer, and a common flue can cause inflammation in the abdominal area and may cause pain.
Most of the time, females are the victims of stomach pain as it can be related to the reproductive cycle. Menstruation and ovulation are counted as the common causes.
It is not easy to diagnose the reason for your stomach pain. If you describe the actual spot of the pain, your doctor may be able to relate to the cause.
If you are suffering from stomach pain in the upper right part of your stomach, you can relate it to the kidney, intestines, and liver. It can be caused by liver diseases, kidney stones, kidney or gallbladder inflammation, bowel obstruction, or even bile, gall bladder, or liver cancer.
The stomach, pancreas, and spleen can be seen in the upper left part of the abdominal area. The area is also related to the heart and lungs. So, doctors usually relate pain in the upper left part of the stomach by analyzing related symptoms to an inflammation of the pancreas, enlarged spleen, gastric problems, and stomach cancer.
Home Remedies For Stomach Pain May Work For You
Stomach pain is a common complaint that can range from mild stabs of pain to debilitating painful cramps.
Causes of stomach pain may be linked to an underlying health condition such as appendicitis or kidney stones, or it may be a reaction to a food product that irritates the stomach lining.
Many cases of discomfort are mild and may be alleviated by home remedies for stomach pain.
Using natural and widely available products like herbal teas and probiotic yogurt may offer fast relief without causing the additional pain sometimes triggered by the irritants in shelf medications.
Sudden and severe stomach pain may indicate a serious health condition. If it is accompanied by a fever, breathing difficulty, or bloody vomit, seek immediate medical attention.
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Lactose Intolerance And Food Allergies
Eating food youre allergic or sensitive to can cause sharp pains in your abdomen as your body works to digest it. Sometimes gas and indigestion symptoms occur if you eat food your body doesnt agree with.
Unless you have food allergies that put you at risk for anaphylaxis, abdominal pain from food allergies or sensitivities is not an emergency. You may also notice bloating or diarrhea after eating food your body cant digest properly.
If you have a lactose allergy, speak with a healthcare professional about replacement enzyme pills, which may allow you to consume dairy without discomfort.
Common Causes Of Abdominal Pain
Stomach pain causes can vary widely. Isolating the cause will largely depend on what other symptoms you’re experiencing alongside your abdominal pain. Some of the most common, non-serious causes of abdominal pain include:
- constipation – fewer than three bowel movements in a week, dry/hard/lumpy stools, difficulty passing stools, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, feeling that you haven’t completely emptied your bowels after using the bathroom
- food poisoning – symptoms include cramps, nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, fever/chills
- viral gastroenteritis -symptoms include watery diarrhea, cramps, nausea and/or vomiting, muscle aches, and a low-grade fever
bile or acid reflux – when your stomach contents rise part way back up your esophagus, causing heartburn, nausea, vomiting, upper abdomen pain, and other symptoms
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