Abdominal Pain

Overview

Abdominal pain refers to discomfort or aches felt anywhere in the belly region between the chest and pelvic area. It is a common symptom with many possible causes — ranging from mild digestive upset to serious medical emergencies.

Possible Causes

Indigestion or gas
Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
Constipation
Gallstones
Kidney stones
Appendicitis
Peptic ulcers
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
Hernia
Gynecological conditions (e.g., ovarian cysts)

Symptoms

Depending on the cause, abdominal pain can be:

Dull or sharp
Cramping or constant
Localized or widespread
Associated with bloating, nausea, vomiting, fever, or diarrhea

Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Depending on the suspected cause, the following tests may be used:

Blood tests — check for infection, inflammation, or organ function issues.
Urinalysis — detect urinary tract infections or kidney problems.
Ultrasound — visualize gallstones, kidney stones, or abdominal masses.
CT scan — provides detailed images of abdominal organs for conditions like appendicitis.
Endoscopy or colonoscopy — evaluate the stomach, intestines, or colon.

When to Seek Urgent Care

Seek immediate medical attention if abdominal pain is severe, sudden, or associated with: vomiting blood, bloody stools, high fever, yellowing of skin (jaundice), or inability to pass stools/gas.