Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain refers to discomfort felt between the chest and pelvic regions. It may be sharp, cramping, dull, or aching, and can be localized or widespread. Causes range from temporary digestive upset to serious conditions requiring urgent care.

• Digestive causes: Indigestion, gas, constipation, gastroenteritis.
• Organ-related causes: Appendicitis, gallstones, pancreatitis, kidney stones, liver disease.
• Chronic conditions: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis), ulcers.
• Other causes: Urinary tract infections, hernias, abdominal trauma.
• Risk factors: High-fat diet, chronic illness, excessive alcohol use, family history of gastrointestinal disease.

Seek urgent medical attention if abdominal pain is severe, sudden, or associated with fever, persistent vomiting, blood in stool or vomit, dizziness, or fainting. Mild abdominal pain that persists longer than a few days, worsens, or is associated with weight loss should also be evaluated.