Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is discomfort that occurs between the chest and pelvic regions. It can range from mild to severe and may be acute or chronic. Abdominal pain can be caused by various conditions, from simple indigestion to serious issues like appendicitis or inflammatory bowel disease. At Blume Health, our gastroenterology team offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for all types of abdominal pain.

Abdominal Pain

Causes

  • Inflammation (such as in appendicitis, pancreatitis, or diverticulitis)
  • Intestinal disorders (such as irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease)
  • Infections in the stomach or intestines
  • Obstruction or blockage in the intestines
  • Organ rupture or perforation
  • Abdominal trauma
  • Hernias
  • Gallstones or kidney stones
  • Ulcers
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Food poisoning or allergies
  • Lactose intolerance
  • Gynecological issues (in women)
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Cancer

Signs and Symptoms

  • Pain that can be sharp, dull, stabbing, cramp-like, or achy
  • Pain that may be localized to a specific area or generalized across the abdomen
  • Fever
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Bloating or distension
  • Loss of appetite
  • Inability to pass gas or stool
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
  • Blood in stool or vomit
  • Painful urination
  • Unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis

Physical Examination

The doctor will feel your abdomen for tenderness, lumps, or other abnormalities, and may perform a rectal exam or pelvic exam if necessary.

Laboratory Tests

Blood, urine, and stool tests to check for signs of infection, inflammation, or other abnormalities.

Imaging Studies

X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to visualize the abdominal organs and look for abnormalities or sources of pain.

Endoscopic Procedures

Upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, or flexible sigmoidoscopy may be used to directly visualize the digestive tract and identify problems.

Laparoscopy

A minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows the doctor to see directly into the abdomen with a small camera.

Treatment Options

Medications

Depending on the cause, medications may include antibiotics for infections, acid reducers for GERD, anti-inflammatories for inflammatory conditions, or pain relievers.

Lifestyle and Dietary Changes

Modifications such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, managing stress, and regular exercise can help manage many causes of abdominal pain.

Procedures and Surgeries

Some conditions causing abdominal pain may require procedures such as gallstone removal, hernia repair, or appendectomy.

Home Remedies

Hot Compress or Heating Pad

Applying heat to the abdomen can help relax muscles and relieve cramping pain.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of fluids, especially clear liquids, can help with digestion and prevent dehydration, especially if you have diarrhea or vomiting.

Bland Diet (BRAT)

Following a bland diet of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT) can help ease digestive discomfort.

Avoid Trigger Foods

Identify and avoid foods that seem to worsen your symptoms, which may include spicy foods, dairy, gluten, caffeine, or alcohol.

Gentle Movement

Light physical activity like walking can help stimulate the digestive system and relieve gas pain and bloating.

Preventive Care

  • Maintain a balanced, high-fiber diet
  • Stay well-hydrated
  • Practice good food hygiene to prevent infections
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals
  • Exercise regularly
  • Manage stress through relaxation techniques
  • Limit alcohol consumption
  • Avoid smoking
  • Take medications as prescribed
  • Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider

Surgical Options

Appendectomy

Surgical removal of the appendix, usually performed when appendicitis is diagnosed. Can be done as open surgery or laparoscopically.

Learn More About This Procedure

Cholecystectomy

Removal of the gallbladder, typically performed to treat gallstones and the pain they cause. Usually performed laparoscopically.

Hernia Repair

Surgical procedure to fix a hernia, which occurs when an organ pushes through a weak spot in a muscle or tissue. May be open or laparoscopic.

Learn More About This Procedure

Schedule a Consultation

If you're experiencing symptoms of abdominal pain, our expert team is here to help you find the right treatment approach for your specific needs.

Book AppointmentCall (040) 4402 0000