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Health Information Guide

Abdominal Pain

Also known as: Stomach PainBelly PainTummy PainAbdominal CrampsGastralgia

Abdominal pain is pain that occurs between the chest and pelvic regions. It can range from mild stomach ache to severe acute pain. The location and quality of pain help identify the cause.

Affects
15-20% experience abdominal pain
Source: GI surveys
Medically reviewed by healthcare professionals
Last updated: January 2025

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. In case of emergency, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.

What It Feels Like

Abdominal pain can feel like: • Cramping or aching • Sharp or stabbing pain • Burning sensation • Bloating or pressure • Waves of pain (colic) • Tenderness to touch

Types & Categories

Upper Abdominal Pain

Pain in upper stomach area, often related to GERD, gastritis, or ulcers.

Lower Abdominal Pain

Pain in lower abdomen, often related to appendicitis, ovarian cysts, or diverticulitis.

Right Upper Quadrant Pain

Pain in right upper abdomen under ribs, often gallbladder or liver related.

Left Upper Quadrant Pain

Pain in left upper abdomen under ribs, often stomach or spleen related.

Common Causes

Gastritis

Inflammation of stomach lining often caused by infection or NSAIDs.

mild

Appendicitis

Inflammation of appendix, a medical emergency.

severe

Gallstones

Hard deposits in gallbladder causing pain, especially after fatty meals.

moderate

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Functional disorder causing abdominal pain, bloating, and bowel changes.

mild

Kidney Stones

Hard deposits in kidneys causing severe flank and abdominal pain.

severe

Risk Factors

Poor diet
Alcohol consumption
Smoking
Stress
Family history of GI issues

Warning Signs & Emergency Symptoms

Warning Signs

  • ⚠️Severe or worsening pain
  • ⚠️Pain with fever
  • ⚠️Pain with vomiting blood
  • ⚠️Pain with difficulty breathing
  • ⚠️Pain during pregnancy

🚨 Call 911 For:

  • !Severe acute abdominal pain
  • !Rigid abdomen
  • !Blood in vomit or stool
  • !High fever with pain
  • !Trauma to abdomen

Immediate Actions While Waiting for Help

1Avoid eating or drinking if surgery might be needed
2Rest in comfortable position
3Don't take pain relievers without doctor advice
4Seek emergency care for severe pain

Self-Care & Home Management

Eat smaller, more frequent meals
Avoid trigger foods
Stay hydrated
Apply heat (for cramps)

How Doctors Diagnose This Symptom

1Physical examination
2Blood tests
3Urinalysis
4CT scan or ultrasound
5Endoscopy

Treatment Options

💊Antibiotics for infections
💊Acid reducers for GERD
💊Surgery for appendicitis or gallstones
💊Dietary changes for IBS
💊Pain management

When to See a Doctor

  • Severe or persistent pain
  • Pain with fever
  • Pain with vomiting
  • Unexplained weight loss with pain
  • Blood in stool

Prevention & Lifestyle Changes

Prevention Tips

  • Eat a healthy diet
  • Limit alcohol and caffeine
  • Manage stress
  • Exercise regularly
  • Stay hydrated

Lifestyle Changes

  • Regular meal times
  • Avoid trigger foods
  • Stress management
  • Regular exercise
  • Adequate fiber intake

Related Medical Conditions

Related Symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

When is abdominal pain an emergency?

Seek emergency care for severe or sudden pain, rigid abdomen, blood in vomit or stool, high fever, or pain after trauma. These may indicate appendicitis, perforated ulcer, or other serious conditions.

What does appendicitis pain feel like?

Appendicitis pain often starts around the navel and migrates to the lower right abdomen. It's usually sharp and worsens with movement, coughing, or jarring bumps. Seek immediate care if suspected.

Related Searches

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Trust & Medical Review

This content is medically reviewed for accuracy and reliability

Medically Reviewed

This content has been reviewed by medical professionals to ensure it meets the latest medical standards and clinical practice guidelines.

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Expert Team

Our content is created by a team of licensed physicians, nurses, and medical writers to ensure accuracy, clarity, and practical utility.

Evidence-Based

All health information is based on peer-reviewed research, clinical guidelines, and recommendations from authoritative health organizations like CDC, WHO, and Mayo Clinic.

Regularly Updated

January 2025

We regularly review and update our content to reflect the latest medical research and clinical practices.

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References & Sources

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
  • National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • Mayo Clinic
  • World Health Organization (WHO)

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. In case of emergency, call emergency services immediately.

Medical Review Team

Dr. Michael Rodriguez, MD

Internal Medicine Physician

Internal Medicine

Mayo Clinic
MDBoard Certified in Internal Medicine

Dr. Rodriguez is a board-certified internist with expertise in primary care and preventive medicine.

Last Reviewed: January 2025
Content follows AHA/ACC Clinical Guidelines

Remember: In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.