Abdominal Pain
Understand the different types and causes of abdominal pain. Learn when stomach pain could indicate a severe issue.
Types of Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain can be broadly categorized into generalized and localized pain. Generalized pain, felt in more than half of the belly, is common for issues like stomach viruses, indigestion, or gas though more serious and severe issues can be present. On the other hand, localized pain in a specific area may indicate problems with organs such as the appendix, gallbladder, kidney, or stomach. Furthe
Upper Abdominal Pain
Upper abdominal pain is often associated with the digestive process and can extend to the chest, neck, or shoulders. Common causes include, but not limited to the following list: Bloating and gas Acid reflux Heartburn Loss of appetite Nausea Hepatitis (alcoholic, toxic, metabolic, viral, or autoimmune) Gallstones Cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation) Bile duct cancer, stones,
Lower Abdominal Pain
Lower abdominal pain can result from various factors, including the menstrual cycle, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and constipation. Common causes include, but not limited to the following list: Cramping Diarrhea Bloating Unusual discharges Painful urination Painful sexual intercourse Irritable bowel syndrome Functional dyspepsia Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s, ulcerativ
Right-Sided Abdominal Pain
Pain on the right side of the abdomen is not limited to but may often be linked to gallstones or appendicitis. Symptoms may include, but not limited to the following list: Feeling sick especially after eating a fatty meal Loss of appetite Shivers and sweats Diarrhea Immediate medical attention in an emergency room is almost always required to determine the cause of right-sided abdominal
Left-Sided Abdominal Pain
Among other causes, left-sided abdominal pain is commonly attributed to diverticulitis/colitis. Symptoms may include, but not limited to the following list: Pain in the left and/or right abdomen area, back, or genitals Fever, shivers, and chills Loss of appetite Feeling sick For diverticulitis, additional symptoms may include constant or crampy severe abdominal pain, fever, blood in the
Causes
Abdominal pain can stem from various causes include, but not limited to the following list:
Digestive Issues
Indigestion Gas and gas pain Constipation Diarrhea Food allergies and intolerances Food poisoning Bowel blockage or obstruction Inflammatory bowel disease
Inflammation
Viral gastroenteritis Heartburn Peptic ulcer disease Chronic acid reflux (GERD) Cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder)
Female Reproductive System
Menstrual cramps Ovulation pain Pelvic inflammatory disease Ruptured ovarian cyst Tubal (ectopic) pregnancy Endometriosis
Other Causes
Appendicitis Abdominal aortic aneurysm Cancer of the stomach, colon, and other organs Decreased blood supply to the intestines Diverticulitis Kidney stones Muscle strain Pancreatitis Ulcers Urinary tract infections (UTI) Stress Shingles Bloating
When to Visit the ER
If you are experiencing severe symptoms related to abdominal pain, don't wait. Visit your nearest TotalCare Emergency Room immediately. We're open 24/7 with board-certified physicians ready to help.
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