Abdominal pain is one of the most common health troubles faced by people. Also known as tummy or belly ache, abdominal pain usually denotes cramps in the stomach and its associated surrounding regions. While symptoms for most cases are short-lived, there may be certain unfortunate times when they linger for long and disrupt your regular activities.
Normally, abdominal pain is caused due to an upset gut, bloating or action of notorious, microbial bugs in the intestines. The conditions may be very much embarrassing; however, they are easy to deal with. Taking commercially available over-the-counter medications is enough to relieve the symptoms. But, problem arises when situations get worse.
Worry not, in the following blog; we will enlist some of the most critical conditions when a medical visit becomes necessary for alleviating abdominal pain. Read on below.
Understanding the basics of abdominal pain: What are the causes?
Abdominal pain may occur for various reasons. As told earlier, stomach cramps generating for a short period of time typically indicate intestinal issues, like gas, (due to improper cleansing of bowels), overeating, indigestion, etc. Sometimes, the pain can also emerge from a viral or bacterial infection in the intestines. The immune system usually clears them within a few days.
Broadly, abdominal pain is categorised into two types: acute and chronic. The former appears with severe intensity; while the latter is less intense, persisting for long. Chronic abdominal pain can, however, come and go. Here is a list of some common causes of abdominal pain.
- Constipation
- Food intolerances or allergies. For example, lactose intolerance
- Food poisoning
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Blockage in the bowel and decreased blood supply in the intestines
- Inflammation of the appendix (or appendicitis)
- Cholecystitis or gall bladder inflammation
- Gall stones
- Endometriosis and uterine fibroids
- Ovarian cysts
When to seek urgent medical help?
If you notice any of the following signs, consider your case as urgent and seek immediate medical intervention. In such situations, a same day private doctor consultation can provide prompt assessment and peace of mind.
- A sharp, recurrent pain in the stomach and surrounding regions
- Skin turning yellowish
- Changes in regular bowel habits
- Blood coming out with faeces, associated with pain in the stomach
- An abnormally swollen stomach that is painful to touch
- A marked reduction in appetite and weight loss
- Persistent vomiting and diarrhoea that does not resolve even after taking medicines
- Blood in urine
- Lower belly cramps, eccentric menstrual cycles and unusual vaginal discharge
- You suspect conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), gallstones, kidney stones, peptic ulcers, or Crohn’s disease
Addressing abdominal pain to private GP: How to do?
Monitor the symptoms
Pain varies for everyone and, hence, it is crucial to take note of the symptoms. Here are a few factors that you must consider.
- Location of the pain
Abdominal pain may concentrate over a particular region or circulate to other parts. Due to the presence of several vital organs in the abdominal canal, the location of your pain plays a significant role in obtaining an accurate diagnosis. - Intensity of the pain
Some people have a higher tolerance level for pain and discomfort than others. Thus, most doctors implement a pain scale, with scores ranging from 1 to 10. 1 represents negligible pain while 10 is meant for worst case. - Pain type
Describing the type of abdominal pain you are experiencing can be tricky and requires using of appropriate words. Here is a list of some useful terms that can help you address your pain effectively to your doctor. - Sharp
- Dull
- Stabbing
- Throbbing
- Aching
- “Comes and goes”
- Sore
- Shooting
- Cramping
- Hot and burning
- Duration of the pain
It is essential to know if the pain has come suddenly or is gradually increasing over time. Sometimes, you can even face intermittent pain or one that happens during specific times. However, if the pain continues for days, weeks, or months, take note of that. This will help in seeking prompt medical help, and prevent worsening of symptoms.
- Other signs
Pay necessary attention to symptoms that you may be experiencing along with the pain, such as, nausea, vomiting, frequent loose motions, bloating, constipation, fever, etc. These signs will help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis.
Prepare the medical history
Your previous medical records can provide valuable information regarding the possible underlying reasons for your abdominal discomfort. You need to have the subsequent information available with you:
- Past abdominal problems: These could consist of prior abdominal surgeries, gastrointestinal issues (e.g., gallstones, peptic ulcers, acid reflux, etc.) and other related ailments.
- Chronic conditions: If you are presently experiencing any persistent health issues, like diabetes, heart problems, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), this information may help the doctor accurately identify the source of the pain.
- List of medicines: Record the drugs or supplements that you are presently using. Some medications, such as pain relievers, antibiotics, and so on, can lead to digestive problems and stomach discomfort.
- Family history: Numerous abdominal disorders may have a genetic predisposition. Therefore, if you have a family member with a history of gastrointestinal diseases, cancers, or other pertinent conditions, it’s important to inform your doctor about this crucial information.
Examine lifestyle habits
It can be quite common to feel embarrassed or uncertain when talking about lifestyle habits that lead to abdominal pain. However, it is essential to be truthful in your responses and not hide details that might appear to be unimportant. Several key aspects that should be taken into account:
- Alterations in bowel habits: If you notice unusual bowel issues, like diarrhoea, constipation, etc., do not hesitate to inform the doctor. This can be vital information for achieving an accurate diagnosis. Moreover, if the pain interferes with your work, sleep, or daily activities; inform your doctor so they can comprehend how it is affecting your life.
- Recent changes in diet and lifestyle: If you have recently implemented diet changes, whether by beginning a new food plan or eliminating specific foods, be sure to mention it. In the same way, stress, engagement in strenuous activities, etc., may be responsible for abdominal pain.
Conclusion
Abdominal pain, however small it may seem, must be intervened on time. If you are apparently fine but experiencing sudden or constant pain in the abdomen region, seek immediate help from a reputed medical specialist. It may be a sign of an underlying condition, incurring a high possibility of appendicitis, peptic ulcers or even bowel cancer. For obtaining an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment guide for abdominal pain, contact any of your local GP clinics today.
