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Abdominal pain refers to discomfort in the space between the chest and pelvis. Most cases of abdominal pain are mild and have a variety of common causes, such as indigestion or muscle strain.
Symptoms often resolve quickly on their own or with basic treatment. Abdominal pain, especially with severe or chronic symptoms, can also be a sign of more serious underlying medical conditions, including cancer or organ failure.
Sudden and severe or long-lasting abdominal pain may require immediate medical treatment.
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Digestive problems are considered the most common cause of abdominal pain. Discomfort or irregularities in any organ or part of the abdomen can cause pain that radiates throughout the entire area.
Many people refer to abdominal pain simply as a stomachache. However, the abdomen contains many vital organs, muscles, blood vessels, and connective tissues that include:
The main artery of the heart (aorta) and another heart vein (inferior vena cava) pass through the abdomen too. The abdomen is also home to the core muscles, the four groups of abdominal muscles that give the trunk stability and keep organs in place and protected.
Because there are a lot of areas that can be affected, abdominal pain may have many causes.
Abdominal pain is a common complaint and can be caused or complicated by a variety of factors.
Common causes include:
In this case, the abdominal pain is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and loose, fluid-filled stools that occur much sooner and more frequently than normal after eating.
Bacteria or viruses cause most cases, and symptoms usually resolve within a few days. Symptoms that last longer than 2 days may be a sign of more serious health problems, such as infection or inflammatory conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease.
Common symptoms include:
Gas occurs when bacteria in the small intestine break down foods that the body finds intolerant. An increased pressure of gas in the intestine can cause sharp pain. Gas can also cause tightness or restriction in the abdomen and flatulence or belching.
For unknown reasons, those with IBS are less able to digest certain foods or types of foods.
Abdominal pain is the primary symptom for many people with IBS and is often relieved after a bowel movement. Other common symptoms include gas, nausea, cramping, and bloating.
Occasionally stomach acids travel backward, moving up into the throat. This reflux almost always causes a burning sensation and accompanying pain. Acid reflux also causes abdominal symptoms, such as bloating or cramps.
Vomiting often causes abdominal pain as stomach acids travel backward through the digestive tract, irritating tissues along the way. The physical act of vomiting also may cause abdominal muscles to become sore.
When the stomach lining becomes inflamed or swollen, pain may occur. Nausea, vomiting, gas, and bloating are other common symptoms of gastritis.
When the body is unable to digest food materials, they are broken down by intestinal and stomach bacteria, which release gas in the process. When large amounts of undigested materials are present, a lot of gas is produced, causing pressure and pain.
Nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain are other symptoms.
When the bowel becomes backed up with waste, the pressure on the colon is increased, which may cause pain.
GERD can cause abdominal pain as well as heartburn and nausea.
Ulcers, or wounds that will not heal tend to cause severe and persistent abdominal pain.
The most common causes of stomach and peptic ulcers are the bacteria H. pylori and the overuse or continued use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS).
Crohn's causes inflammation of the digestive tract lining, which results in pain, gas, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and bloating. Given its chronic nature, the condition may lead to malnutrition, causing weight loss and exhaustion.
An allergy to gluten, a protein found in many grains, such as wheat and barley, causes inflammation in the small intestine, resulting in pain.
Diarrhea and bloating are also common symptoms. Over time, malnutrition can occur, resulting in weight loss and exhaustion.
Because many daily activities require the use of the abdominal muscles, injury or strain is common. Many people also focus heavily on abdominal exercises, increasing the risk of damage.
Menstruation can cause inflammation and pain in the abdomen. Bloating, gas, cramping, and constipation can also occur during menstruation, causing abdominal discomfort.
Women who have endometriosis may experience more severe or chronic inflammation and pain.
Urinary tract infections are most often caused by bacteria, primarily E.coli species, that colonize the urethra and bladder, causing a bladder infection or cystitis.
Symptoms include pain, pressure, and bloating in the lower abdominal area. Most infections also cause painful urination and cloudy, strong-smelling urine.
In some cases, abdominal pain is a sign of a medical condition that can be fatal without immediate medical care.
Less common causes of abdominal pain include:
Most cases of abdominal pain are not serious, and symptoms resolve with basic home care, such as rest and hydration, within hours to days.
Many over-the-counter medications, such as antacids and gas medications, also help reduce and manage symptoms.
Acute (sudden and severe) or chronic (long-lasting) abdominal pain, however, are often signs of conditions that do require medical attention and treatment.
Symptoms that require medical attention include:
Symptoms that require emergency care include:
Though rare, it is important for people experiencing these symptoms to seek emergency medical attention.
