Causes of Abdominal Pain: A Comprehensive Guide

Abdominal pain is a common issue that affects people of all ages and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. The reasons for abdominal pain can vary widely—some might be minor, while others could be more serious.

The potential causes may involve various organs within the abdominal cavity, such as the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, each potentially contributing to the discomfort experienced. Thus, consulting a medical specialist is important, as they can conduct exams and tests to pinpoint the exact cause and provide the necessary medical intervention.

Mild Causes of Abdominal Pain

While abdominal pain can sometimes be alarming, many instances are linked to less serious conditions that are easily manageable and not life-threatening. These include the following:

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu, results from infections by viruses like norovirus or rotavirus, or bacteria such as E. coli or Salmonella. It causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, which includes both the stomach and intestines. Other than abdominal pain, symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Fever

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that primarily affects the large intestine. It manifests as a group of symptoms that disrupt normal bowel functions Other than abdominal pain, notable symptoms include:

• Bloating
• Gas
• Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhoea or constipation

Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance arises from the body’s inability to adequately digest lactose, the sugar predominantly found in milk and dairy products. This condition causes digestive problems soon after dairy consumption. Besides abdominal pain, other symptoms manifest as:

• Bloating
• Diarrhoea
• Gas

Gas and Bloating

Gas accumulation in the stomach and intestines is often due to swallowed air or the breakdown of food through digestion. Excessive gas can lead to uncomfortable bloating and abdominal discomfort. Other than the obvious discomfort, it may cause:

• Belching
• Flatulence
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the abdomen

Food Intolerances

Food intolerances occur when the body has difficulty digesting certain foods, leading to gas, bloating, and abdominal pain. Unlike food allergies, intolerances do not involve the immune system. Other associated symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Headache

Menstrual Cramps

Menstrual cramps, which occur in the lower abdomen, typically start before or during a menstrual period. They result from the uterus contracting to help expel its lining. Alongside abdominal pain, they can cause:

• Lower back pain
• Thigh pain
• General malaise

Severe Causes of Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can indicate serious conditions requiring urgent medical attention. Some serious underlying causes include:

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, a small tube extending from the large intestine. If untreated, it can rupture, leading to serious complications. Other than abdominal pain, which typically starts around the navel and moves to the lower right abdomen, additional symptoms include:

• Fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite

Gallstones

Gallstones are hard deposits formed in the gallbladder, often blocking the bile ducts, which can cause intense pain. This condition may require surgical intervention if the stones block bile flow, potentially leading to inflammation or infection of the gallbladder. Other than abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right abdomen or under the right shoulder, symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Jaundice, if the bile ducts remain blocked

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by gallstones or heavy alcohol use. It can be acute or chronic and may lead to severe, life-threatening complications. Other than abdominal pain, which often occurs in the upper abdomen and may radiate to the back, other symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Rapid pulse
• Swollen and tender abdomen

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches in the colon (diverticula) become inflamed or infected. This condition can cause severe abdominal pain, typically on the lower left side. Other symptoms include:

• Fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhoea)

Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency where a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, commonly in a fallopian tube. This condition can cause severe lower abdominal pain, often on one side, and if not treated promptly, can lead to life-threatening bleeding. Other than abdominal pain, symptoms may include:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Shoulder pain
• Dizziness or fainting
• Low blood pressure (in severe cases)

When to Seek Medical Attention

Seek immediate medical attention if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms such as fever, persistent nausea and vomiting, jaundice, severe tenderness when you touch your abdomen, or swelling of the abdomen. Additionally, signs like blood in the stool, significant and unexplained weight loss, or severe, continuous pain should prompt urgent medical attention.

These symptoms could indicate conditions like appendicitis, bowel obstructions, or an ectopic pregnancy, which require prompt medical intervention to prevent complications. Recognising the severity and nature of abdominal pain and accompanying symptoms can be lifesaving and prevent further health deterioration.

What Are the Management and Treatment Options for Abdominal Pain?

Understanding how to manage and treat abdominal pain effectively is important, whether it stems from mild or severe causes.

For Less Severe Causes:

Management of less severe causes of abdominal pain typically involves lifestyle modifications and over-the-counter treatments:

• Hydration: Important in conditions like gastroenteritis to prevent dehydration from vomiting and diarrhoea.
• Dietary Adjustments: People with IBS may benefit from a low FODMAP diet; those with lactose intolerance should avoid dairy products.
• Over-the-counter Medications: Antacids for indigestion, anti-gas medications for bloating, and laxatives for constipation can alleviate symptoms.
• Monitoring and Consultation: Regular monitoring of symptoms and consultation ensure appropriate management and rule out more serious conditions.

For More Serious Causes:

Treatment for more serious causes of abdominal pain often requires medical intervention and, in some cases, surgery:

• Surgical Intervention: Conditions like appendicitis, gallstones, and ectopic pregnancy typically require surgical removal of the affected organ or correction of the issue.
• Antibiotics: These are used to treat infections such as diverticulitis or certain severe cases of gastroenteritis.
• Hospitalisation: Conditions like pancreatitis may require hospital admission for intensive care, pain management, and monitoring.
• Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Even in severe conditions, long-term management may involve dietary adjustments, such as reducing fat intake for gallstone prevention or abstaining from alcohol in pancreatitis.

Conclusion

Understanding the diverse causes of abdominal pain and recognising the difference between mild and more serious conditions is important for effective management and timely medical intervention. Prompt and appropriate treatment not only alleviates discomfort but also helps prevent complications.

If you’re experiencing abdominal pain, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with us who can ensure you receive the proper diagnosis and treatment.