Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain is a common medical complaint that can be caused by a wide range of underlying conditions. It is a discomfort or pain that is felt anywhere between the chest and the groin area. Abdominal pain can be acute or chronic, and it can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation. The severity of the pain can depend on the cause of the pain and the individual’s pain tolerance. It can also be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. It is crucial to seek medical attention if the pain is severe or persistent, as it could be a sign of a more significant underlying issue. We will discuss the following content below.
Causes of abdominal pain
How abdominal pain is diagnosed
Remedies to help manage abdominal pain
Ways to avoid abdominal pain
When to see urgent medical care
CAUSES OF ABDOMINAL PAIN
Abnormal growths
Inflammation
Intestinal disorders
Diseases that affect the organs in the abdomen
Infections in the throat, intestines, and blood can cause bacteria to enter your digestive tract, resulting in abdominal pain.
Cramps associated with menstruation are also a potential source of lower abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
Acid reflux (when stomach contents leak backward into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms)
Abdominal pain can even be caused by some medicines. (anti-inflammatory medicines, aspirin, medicines to help manage the symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease)
Indigestion
Gastroenteritis and food poisoning
Ulcers
Gallstones, gallbladder problems, liver problems
Appendicitis
Pancreatitis
Bowel obstruction or constipation
Period pain
Kidney stones
Pelvic inflammatory disease
Heart problems, such as Angina or Heart Failure
HOW THE CAUSE OF ABDOMINAL PAIN IS DETECTED
Interview with questions related
The type of pain
Location of the pain
The strength of the pain
The intervals at which the pain occurs
The menstruation cycle (if female)
Food products consumed
The time span of this pain
If pregnant or not
Urine test
Ultrasound
CT scan
MRI scan
Ultrasound of the scrotum (for men)
Stool test
Barium swallows or enemas
Endoscopy
X-ray
Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy
REMEDIES TO HELP MANAGE ABDOMINAL PAIN
Medications to lower inflammation, prevent acid reflux, or treat ulcers and infection
Surgery to treat a problem with an organ
Diet and lifestyle changes to relieve gas and indigestion
Eat smaller portions of meals more frequently
Eat slowly
Ensure that the food is chewed properly before swallowing
Drink beverages at room temperature
Manage stress
Remain sitting or take a short walk for a few minutes after eating to allow the food to move down the digestive tract
Get regular physical activity
Keep hydrated by drinking clear fluids
Stay rested
Apply a hot water bottle or warm pack to the abdomen
THINGS TO AVOID
Foods that cause gas or indigestion
Over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen because they can worsen the pain by irritating the stomach
Alcohol and caffeine
WHEN TO SEEK URGENT MEDICAL CARE
It is important to know when to seek urgent medical care, as delaying appropriate treatment can lead to further health complications. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical help immediately. If you have any doubts about whether you should seek medical care, it is always better to err on the side of caution and consult with your doctor.
Pain is severe or worsening
Pain that wakes someone from sleeping
Pain lasts for several hours or days
Pain spreading to the neck, torso and shoulder
Pain that makes it hard to swallow
Abdominal pain accompanied by
· Blood in the urine or feces
· Vaginal bleeding unrelated to a menstrual period
· A change the bowel function
· Difficulty urinating and defecating
· Nausea and vomiting
· Fever
· Inflammation of the abdomen
· Unexplained weight loss
· Yellow skin
· Trouble breathing
· Vomiting blood
· During pregnancy