Eight Common Causes of Abdominal Pain

The pain grew in intensity, like a wave cresting. The emergency room doctor patiently explained that there were perhaps a hundred potential causes.

Most patients describe abdominal pain as centering in the stomach or belly area. However, according to MedLine Plus, it can occur anywhere between the chest and the groin. Here are some of the most common causes:

Appendicitis. It's an inflammation of the appendix. The pain progresses from the belly button area to the right lower abdomen. Symptoms include reduced appetite, nausea, vomiting and fever. The standard treatment is surgery.

Bowel blockage or obstruction. It can be either a partial or a complete intestinal blockage. Common causes are a random bowel twisting, adhesions, certain intestinal diseases and narcotics. Patients experience gas, constipation or diarrhea, pain and vomiting. Treatment includes use of a nasogastric tube or surgery.

Gallbladder inflammation. Known as cholecystitis, its cause is gallstones 90 percent of the time. The acute form is a sudden inflammation of the gallbladder resulting in severe abdominal pain as bile becomes trapped. Treatment can include antibiotics, dietary changes or surgery.

Food allergies. Sensitivity to common food such as eggs, peanuts, milk or shellfish is usually the cause. In addition to sneezing and a runny nose, many patients experience other symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea just a few hours after eating. The only effective treatment is elimination of the food.

Food poisoning. Eating contaminated food is usually the cause. The most common source is bacteria like staphylococcus or E. coli. Typical symptoms are abdominal cramping, diarrhea, fever, headache, nausea and vomiting. Patients typically recover on their own but sometimes require medical intervention.

Heartburn, indigestion or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Pain often radiates from the chest area. Many individuals improve after dietary changes or weight loss. Medical intervention is necessary if there's no improvement after a few weeks of self-care or a medication is the suspected cause.

Lactose intolerance. The failure of the small intestine to make enough of the enzyme lactase produces gas, discomfort, bloating and foul-smelling stools. Patients should avoid milk or other dairy products. Over-the-counter medications help some.

Kidney stones. They can cause acute abdominal pain. It usually starts suddenly and fades just as fast. It can occur in the belly area or side of the back and sometimes moves to the groin. Treatment includes drinking a lot of water, waiting for a small stone to pass, taking medication to dissolve the stone or surgery.

Individuals who experience severe abdominal pain should consult a medical practitioner.

Source:

MedLine Plus site