Abdominal Pain: Reasons, Types & Treatment

What is abdominal pain?

The abdomen is the region of the digestive system that houses various organs such as the liver, stomach, pancreas, gall bladder, small intestine, large intestine and kidneys, and even muscles that maintain stance, stability, and suspiration.

Abdominal pain can be due to pain in any organ or even the skin and muscles of the abdomen itself. Almost everyone has stomach pain at one time or the other.

So, it is not a serious cause for concern as the doctor can easily diagnose and treat the problem.

Categories of Abdominal Pain

There are a few types of abdominal pain, such as:

• Acute abdominal pain is severe abdominal pain that occurs at short notice and may occur with other symptoms of abdominal pain.
• Chronic abdominal pain starts over several weeks or even months and keeps recurring from time to time.
• Progressive abdominal pain: worsens over time and occurs commonly with several other symptoms.

What are the Causes of Abdominal Pain?

Pain in the abdomen after eating may be due to digestive issues such as food poisoning, gas trouble, indigestion, diarrhoea, constipation or food allergies.

The pain can also be due to inflammation of specific organs in the abdomen, such as stomach Liver, pancreas GERD (acid reflux), peptic ulcers or even a urinary tract infection (UTI).

In the case of women, especially in their reproductive years, abdominal pain can be due to menstrual cramps or the pain due to ovulation.

Thus, it is important to ascertain the root cause of the abdominal pain for the doctor to determine the correct treatment.

Symptoms Of Abdominal Pain

One must consult their doctor immediately if experiencing some or all of the following symptoms of abdominal pain:

• High pain in the abdomen, especially the upper or lower abdomen regions.
• High fever.
• Blood-coloured stool and pain in passing stool.
• Vomiting or nausea, especially after a meal.
• Sudden loss of weight.
• Yellowing of the skin/eyes.
• Pain when the abdomen is touched
• Swelling of the Abdomen.

How is Abdominal Pain diagnosed?

Dependent on the location of one's severe abdominal pain, the doctor may ask several questions to assess the symptoms' causes. After the cross-examination, the patient is suggested diagnostic tests according to the assessment.

Some commonly recommended tests are:

• Stool or urine tests:

A urine sample to test for potential causes of severe abdominal pain.

• Blood tests:

A blood sample to test for the underlying reason.

• X-ray:

A standard test to get a clear image of the abdomen.

• Ultrasound:

This method uses ultrasound waves to get a better image.

• Endoscopy:

An invasive imaging technique to provide a better look into the condition of the organs.

• CT scan:

Computed tomography is another imaging method commonly used.

• Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy:

Dependent on the region, doctors use this minimally invasive technique to observe the colon or sigmoid part of the intestine.

What are the complications associated with Abdominal Pain?

Severe abdominal pain, if left untreated, may lead to several serious medical problems in the long run. It can lead to the failure of several vital internal organs related to the digestive system, such as the liver, pancreas, gall bladder, appendix, small and large intestines and kidneys. In severe cases, it can lead to total organ failure, resulting in death if proper treatment is not given in time.

How to treat Abdominal Pain?

The treatment for abdominal pain depends on its cause and may include medications to tackle the inflamed parts, stop the acid reflux and treat the peptic ulcers and any infections one may have.

Self-medication is strictly to be avoided as certain painkillers like Aspirin or Ibuprofen may only lead to a worse situation. Do not take these medicines unless prescribed by the doctor.

In extreme cases, the doctor may prefer surgery to treat any problem with a particular organ. Certain diet and lifestyle changes can relieve pain caused by indigestion and any gas troubles.

Call Gleneagles Global Hospital, Lakdikapul, Hyderabad to book an appointment. Enquire now at (040)-2349-1000 or book an online appointment at: www.gleneaglesglobalhospitalLakdikapul.com to consult our medical staff.

What can be done to prevent Abdominal Pain

Several symptoms associated with severe abdominal pain are connected to various digestive issues. Acid reflux, indigestion, constipation and diarrhoea are all related to problems with one's digestive system. Certain diet and lifestyle changes can relieve pain caused by indigestion and gas formation. Try the following lifestyle changes to ensure long-term recovery from severe abdominal pain:

• Consume smaller portions of food, chew properly and take food at regular intervals.
• Refrain from having drinks that are too hot or too cold.
• Do not have foods that cause acid reflux.
• Handle stress levels daily.
• Monitor the intake of alcohol and coffee.
• Maintain regular exercise and take short walks after a meal.

How do people live with Abdominal Pain?

Pain in the abdomen can severely affect one's overall movement. Doctors may advise bed rest and medication to prevent further damage in certain cases. If one has to undergo surgery, the recovery period may vary further. Do not self-diagnose and self-medicate, as it may lead to a much more severe condition. The prevalence of abdominal pain is quite common, and it can be managed when given the right treatment at the right time. Consulting the best doctor nearby in case of chronic abdominal pain can impact the course of the treatment.

Severe abdominal pain is due to a host of different reasons. Specific lifestyle changes can significantly alter the course of the disease and help one lead a healthier life in the long run. Instead of relying on oneself, it is best to consult the doctor today if one has any of the above symptoms.

Call Gleneagles Global Hospital, Lakdikapul, Hyderabad to book an appointment with some of the best gastroenterologist in Hyderabad. Enquire now at (040)-2349-1000 or book an online appointment at: www.gleneaglesglobalhospitalLakdikapul.com.