What is Abdominal Pain: Symptoms, Causes, Types, and Treatment

There can be several reasons causing stomach aches. Simple issues like the presence of gas in the stomach to more severe conditions like appendicitis or Crohn's disease can be the reason behind your random stomach ache. To understand the reason being the stomach ache, your doctor will generally ask you where it hurts, how often it hurts and if there are any triggers for this pain. If you are experiencing stomach pain, here are a few things you must remember.

What is Abdominal Pain?

If you are experiencing pain anywhere between your chest and groin area, it is known as abdominal pain. The pain can be generalized, localized or cause cramping and discomfort in the stomach. Stomach aches can be due to various reasons; cramping or discomfort is usually due to bloating, constipation or gas. However, sometimes this can also be due to a more severe condition so keep track of the duration of the pain. Colicky pain in your abdomen usually comes and goes, which means you could be fine one minute and in pain the next; this pain can indicate issues like gallstones or kidney stones.

Your abdomen houses some of the vital organs of your body, such as

• Liver
• Stomach
• The small and large intestine
• Pancreas
• Gallbladder

All these organs make up the digestive system and any pain in these organs can cause stomachaches. Sometimes the pain can also be because of the skin and muscles that make up the outer shell of your abdomen, also known as the abdominal wall. At times the pain in your stomach can also be coming from your chest, back or pelvis.

How common are stomach aches?

Because there are so many different reasons behind stomach aches, almost everyone will experience stomach pain at some time in their life. While most of them are not severe and get resolved with time, about 5% of the causes are more severe and may need you to consult a doctor in an emergency. If you are experiencing daily stomach aches, be sure to consult a doctor.

Types of abdominal pain

There are three main types of abdominal pain.

• Acute pain: This kind of stomach ache usually starts over a short period and it is typically present with other symptoms.
• Chronic pain: This kind usually lasts anywhere between a few weeks to a few months or more. You may not experience daily stomach aches but it may come and go.
• Progressive pain: This type of stomach ache may get worse over time and is present along with other symptoms.

Specific Location of Abdominal Pain

The location of stomach pain can provide valuable clues about its underlying cause. Pain in the upper abdomen may indicate issues with the stomach, gallbladder, or pancreas, while discomfort in the lower abdomen often points to intestinal problems or reproductive organs. For example, pain in the right upper quadrant could suggest gallstones or liver inflammation, whereas pain in the lower left quadrant may signify diverticulitis or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Identifying the specific area of your abdominal pain can help doctors narrow down the potential causes and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Why Does My Stomach Hurt?

Stomach pain can have numerous causes, most commonly related to issues within the digestive tract. Some common causes include:

• Indigestion or acid reflux
• Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
• Food allergies or intolerances
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Menstrual cramps
• Muscle strain
• Stress and anxiety

In most cases, stomach pain results from irritation, inflammation, or dysfunction in the digestive tract. However, pain can also originate from nearby organs like the gallbladder, kidneys, or reproductive organs.

Causes of stomach aches

Some common causes of stomach aches can be constipation, indigestion, menstrual cramps or a stomach bug. Other more severe causes of stomach pain are

• Gastroesophageal reflux diseases
• Diverticulitis
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Bowel obstruction or blockage
• Ovarian cysts or cancer
• Cancer of the pancreas, stomach, gallbladder, bile ducts, immune cells or liver
• Cholecystitis
• Pancreatitis
• Low flow of blood to the intestines due to a blocked blood vessel
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Celiac disease

If you have been experiencing stomach aches for over three months affecting your everyday activities, you must consult your doctor. The pain may stop and start without any warning but if you have more than three episodes within 3 months, it is best to visit your doctor. Here are some signs that you should speak to your doctor:

• If you cannot keep food down for 2 days or more
• Signs of getting dehydration
• Experience pain when you are urinating or have to urinate more often
• Cannot have dowel movements because of vomiting
• If your belly feels tender
• If the pain persists for a few hours or more
• If you vomit blood
• Experience bloody or black bowel movements
• Constantly vomiting
• Have yellowish skin
• Experience unexplained weight loss
• If you are pregnant

Diagnosis for Abdominal Pain

Because of the sheer number of possible diagnoses for stomach aches, your doctor will need to conduct a thorough physical exam. They may also ask you several questions like the location of the pain, the type, how often it occurs, how long it last and whether certain food or drink cause it to hurt.

They may also suggest several tests to confirm their diagnosis such as

• Blood tests
• Urine or stool tests
• Ultrasounds

Treatment and home remedies for stomach aches

Treatment options for persistent stomach aches include:

• Medication to reduce inflammation, treat infections or ulcers and prevent acid reflux
• If there is a problem with an organ located in the abdomen, you may have to undergo surgery to treat it.
• You can also try some home remedies for stomach aches that do not have any serious underlying cause. Some of them include:
  • Consuming bitters and soda
  • Adding ginger to your meals
  • Chamomile tea
  • Adopting the BRAT diet (Banana, rice, apple sauce, and toast)
  • Peppermint
  • Heating pads
  • Warm baths
  • Apple cider vinegar

Dietary and lifestyle changes help relieve pain caused due to gas or indigestion. Here are a few you may want to consider:

• Have small, frequent meals
• Eat slowly
• Chew your food well
• Drink beverages that are at room temperature
• Limit the intake of caffeine and alcohol
• Manage stress
• Avoid any food that causes indigestion or gas
• Sit straight during and after eating
• Take a short walk or engage in light physical activity after eating

Conclusion

If you or someone you are close to is experiencing abdominal pain, it is best not to jump to conclusions as it may not have any serious reasons behind it. However, it is important to speak to your doctor if the pain persists and get the right treatment. Metropolis Labs is one of the leading diagnostic labs in India. Along with high-quality testing services, we also offer home sample collection so that you do not have to leave the comfort of your home when you are unwell. Check our website today!

FAQs

1. How do I reduce stomach pain?

Apply a warm compress, rest, avoid spicy foods, and try ginger or peppermint tea. Over-the-counter antacids or pain relievers may also help if used appropriately.

2. How do I know if my stomach pain is serious?

Seek medical help if pain is severe, sudden, persistent, or accompanied by fever, vomiting, blood, weight loss, or difficulty breathing—these may indicate a serious condition.

3. What is the best over-the-counter medication for stomach pain?

Antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors can relieve stomach pain from acid. Use as directed and consult a doctor.

4. What to drink to settle the stomach?

Ginger tea, chamomile tea, peppermint tea, clear broth, or warm water with lemon can help soothe the stomach. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages.

5. Is it normal to have stomach pain every day?

Daily stomach pain is not normal. It could signal chronic issues like IBS, ulcers, or food intolerance. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and proper treatment.