What Causes Abdominal Pain and What it’s Commonly Associated With

Overview

 

Abdominal pain is a term used to describe pain that is located in the abdomen. This pain can be caused by a variety of factors, such as inflammation, infection, injury, or a tumor.

While abdominal pain can be caused by a number of different conditions, there are some conditions that are more common than others.

The most common causes of abdominal pain are gastrointestinal problems, such as ulcers, constipation, or urinary tract infections.

In this article we will explore more on abdominal pain and the steps to take to your recovery.

 

Types of Abdominal Pain

 

Acute Abdominal Pain

Acute abdominal pain is a common medical condition that has many potential causes. The pain is often described as sharp and severe, and it may be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Acute abdominal pain can occur in any part of the abdomen, and the cause may be difficult to determine.

 

Chronic Abdominal Pain

Chronic abdominal pain is a condition that is characterised by recurrent or persistent pain in the abdomen.

The pain can be caused by a variety of different medical conditions, including abnormal function of the digestive system, problems with the urinary system, and problems with the reproductive system.

 

Progressive Abdominal Pain

Progressive abdominal pain, also referred to as diffuse abdominal pain, is a condition that results in pain and discomfort that starts in the abdomen and spreads to other areas of the body.

The pain can be constant or intermittent and may vary in intensity.

 

What Are the Common Causes of Abdominal Pain?

 

There are many causes of abdominal pain, some more serious than others.

The most common causes of abdominal pain are cramps, gas, and constipation. Other causes can include food poisoning, a urinary tract infection, and appendicitis.

Cramps can be caused by a number of things, including menstruation, ovulation, and gas. Gas can be caused by eating too quickly, eating high-fiber foods, drinking carbonated beverages, or smoking.

Constipation can be caused by a lack of fiber in the diet, not drinking enough water, or not getting enough exercise.

Food poisoning is most commonly caused by eating food that has been contaminated with bacteria, such as salmonella.

 

Common Causes of Abdominal Pain in Adults?

 

Abdominal pain is a common problem that affects people of all ages. The pain can be sharp, dull, or cramp-like and it can occur anywhere in the abdomen.

 The causes of abdominal pain can vary from relatively minor problems, such as gas or indigestion, to more serious conditions, such as a ruptured appendix. Common causes of abdominal pain in adults include:

• Gastrointestinal problems, such as indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, or gas
• Urinary tract infection
• Menstrual cramps
• Appendicitis
• Gallbladder problems
• Pancreatitis
• Ovarian cysts

Many conditions can cause abdominal pain. But the main causes are:

• Infection
• Abnormal growths
• Inflammation
• Obstruction (blockage)
• Intestinal Disorders
• Inflammation
• Diseases that affect the organs in the abdomen

 

Cramps associated with menstruation are also a potential source of lower abdominal pain, but these are more commonly known to cause pelvic pain.

Other common causes of abdominal pain include:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
• Acid reflux (when stomach contents leak backward into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms)
• Vomiting
• Stress

 

 

 Common Causes of Abdominal Pain in Children?

 

There are many potential causes of abdominal pain in children. Some of the more common causes include appendicitis, constipation, and gastroenteritis.

Appendicitis is a condition that occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed. The appendix is a small, worm-like organ that is located on the right side of the abdomen.

Symptoms of appendicitis include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and a fever.

The pain typically worsens over time and may become more severe near the navel. If appendicitis is not treated, the appendix may rupture, which can lead to a life-threatening infection.

 

Types of Abdominal Pain

 

Pain In the Upper Abdomen

The most common causes of pain in the upper abdomen are:

– Gastritis
– Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
–  Peptic ulcer disease

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining.
The most common symptoms are upper abdominal pain and nausea. Gastritis can be caused by infections, medications, and autoimmune conditions.

GERD is a condition in which acid from the stomach leaks up into the esophagus. The most common symptoms are heartburn and acid reflux.

GERD can be caused by lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity, and by medical conditions such as diabetes and hiatal hernia.

 

Pain In the Lower Abdomen 

The most common causes of lower abdominal pain are:

– Indigestion or heartburn
– Constipation
– Gas -Bloating
–  Food poisoning
–  Urinary tract infection
–  Appendicitis
–  Crohn’s disease

Other causes of abdominal pain include:

–  Stomach ulcers
–  Gallstones
–  Liver disease
–  Kidney stones
–  Ectopic pregnancy
–  Miscarriage
–  Endometriosis
–  Cancer

Pain the Right Side of the Abdomen

Most people will experience abdominal pain at some point in their lives.

While the cause of abdominal pain can vary, there are a few common causes that are often associated with this type of pain.

One of the most common causes of abdominal pain is constipation.

When you are constipated, your stool becomes hard and dry, and this can cause pain and discomfort in the abdomen.
Another common cause of abdominal pain is gastroenteritis, which is a viral or bacterial infection of the stomach or intestines.

This type of infection can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can lead to abdominal pain.

Appendicitis is another common cause of abdominal pain.

 

Pain in the Left Side of the Abdomen

There are many potential causes of abdominal pain, which can range from mild to life-threatening.

The most common causes of pain in the left side of the abdomen are:

– Gastritis or peptic ulcer disease
– Appendicitis
– Acute pancreatitis
– Left-sided ovarian cyst or torsion
– Ectopic pregnancy
– Incarcerated hernia

Gastritis and peptic ulcer disease are both caused by inflammation of the stomach lining.

Symptoms of gastritis can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Peptic ulcer disease is a more serious condition that can lead to stomach bleeding and perforation of the stomach lining.

 

 

Treatment and Home Remedies for Abdominal Pain

 
How abdominal pain is treated is highly dependent on the diagnosis. Medications that reduce inflammation may help with stomach pains resulting from ulcers.

But other conditions, like kidney stones, may require more intensive treatment like shock wave lithotripsy. Inflammation of the gall bladder might require gall bladder surgery.

Your doctor might prescribe a pain-modifying drug, like amitriptyline or trazodone, to address the pain. These may help change the way the brain processes pain signals.

If you and your doctor have determined that your abdominal pain is not the result of a serious medical condition, there are a number of home health remedies that may provide relief.

Here’s a brief list:

• Bitters and Soda
• Ginger
• Chamomile Tea
• BRAT Diet (bananas, rice, apple sauce, toast)
• Peppermint
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Heating Pad
• Warm Bath

 

 

How Can I Prevent Abdominal Pain?

 

Not all forms of abdominal pain are preventable. But you can minimize the risk of developing abdominal pain by:

• Eating a Healthy Diet
• Drinking Lots of Water
• Exercising Regularly
• Eating Smaller Meals 

If you have an intestinal disorder, like Crohn’s disease, follow the diet your doctor has given you to minimize discomfort.

If you have GERD, don’t eat within 2 hours of bedtime.

Lying down too soon after eating may cause heartburn and abdominal pain. Try waiting at least 2 hours after eating before lying down.

 

When To See a Doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Abdominal pain that lasts longer than 24 hours
• Prolonged constipation
• Vomiting
• A burning sensation when you urinate
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss

There is no one definitive answer to the question of when to see a gastroenterologist. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you decide when to seek medical help.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should see a gastroenterologist as soon as possible:

For more information on the diagnosis and treatment of abdominal pain in Johannesburg, contact Dr. Schneider or book your consultation today.