Kauvery Hospital: Abdominal pain – Causes, Types and Treatment

Thursday, July 27, 2023

Abdominal pain – Causes, Types and Treatment

Abdominal pain can be caused by various major organs located in the abdomen, including the intestines, kidneys, appendix, spleen, gallbladder, stomach, pancreas, and liver.

Types and causes of abdominal pain

There are three main types of abdominal pain:

Localized pain, specific to one area of the abdomen, is often caused by problems with a particular organ, such as stomach ulcers or indigestion.

Cramp-like pain that comes and goes, is often caused by issues like constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and menstruation or reproductive disorders in women.

Colicky pain, resembling severe muscle cramps, often caused by more serious medical conditions such as kidney stones, gallstones, and intestinal blockages.

The causes of abdominal pain are numerous and can include inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, GERD, diverticulitis, appendicitis, urinary tract infections, endometriosis, and even cancer of abdominal organs.

Treatment for abdominal pain

For mild abdominal pain, home treatment may be attempted, such as checking blood sugar (for diabetics), sipping water, avoiding solid food for a few hours, avoiding dairy products, and using antacids for acidity-related pain. However, if the pain persists or is severe and accompanied by other symptoms, it’s essential to consult a doctor rather than self-medicating.

Also Read: How can you protect yourself from bacterial infections of the stomach?

Treatment will depend on the underlying cause, and the gastro doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, medications, or, in rare cases, surgical intervention for intestinal blockages.

Abdominal pain can be caused by various organs and conditions. While some cases can be managed with home remedies, persistent or severe pain requires medical attention from a gastroenterology specialist to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Ignoring abdominal pain or self-medicating without proper diagnosis can lead to worsening of the problem.