Consuming harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli can lead to food poisoning, resulting in various symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever that can last from hours to days.

Common signs of food poisoning include:

• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain or cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever

If experiencing diarrhea or vomiting, make sure to stay hydrated to prevent dehydration.

When to Seek Medical Help

Consult a Doctor for severe symptoms like:

• Bloody diarrhea
• Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days
• High fever (>102°F)
• Frequent vomiting making it hard to drink liquids
• Signs of dehydration like decreased urine output, dry mouth, dizziness

If pregnant and experiencing fever and flu-like symptoms, it is advisable to see a doctor.

Report any suspected cases of food-related illnesses to local health departments for further investigation.

Potential Risks of Foodborne Illnesses

While most cases of foodborne illnesses are mild, some can be severe or life-threatening, potentially requiring hospitalization or leading to long-term health complications.

For some individuals, health issues may persist even after recovering from a foodborne illness.

Understanding the Causes of Digestive Tract Infections

Feeling fever and stomach cramps may point to digestive tract infections such as gastroenteritis. Other infections and inflammatory conditions can also trigger fever. It is crucial to monitor symptoms and seek medical advice if concerned.

Although informative, the list below should not replace professional diagnosis. For more information on various medical conditions and treatments, visit MedicineNet.

Dealing with Gastrointestinal Concerns

Gastroenteritis or stomach flu manifests with gastrointestinal problems like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Causes can include Norovirus, Rotavirus, and bacterial infections.

Treatment typically involves staying hydrated and, in severe cases, hospitalization for managing dehydration.

Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as constipation, abdominal pain, bloating, and gas. Treatment may involve medications, dietary modifications, and lifestyle adjustments.

Addressing Throat Pain and Infections

Throat pain, or sore throat, can result from infections, toxins, or injuries, showing symptoms like fever, cough, runny nose, hoarseness, and body aches. Treatment options range from over-the-counter remedies to antibiotics, depending on the cause.

It is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding irritants such as smoking or exposure to tobacco smoke. Gargling with warm salt water can also help soothe the throat and reduce inflammation.

If the sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be necessary to clear up the infection. It is important to finish the full course of antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

If throat pain persists or is accompanied by difficulty swallowing, breathing difficulties, or a high fever, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. In some cases, further evaluation and treatment may be needed to address the underlying cause of the throat pain.

Protecting Against Influenza

Influenza, or flu, is a respiratory illness that can cause symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, and fatigue. Getting vaccinated can help prevent the flu.

Empower yourself by prioritizing a healthy lifestyle, preventive measures, balanced nutrition, and regular physical activity.

healthdirect Australia provides free consultations with nurses or doctors to offer guidance on the best course of action.

If you experience severe abdominal pain, it is important to seek urgent medical attention. Abdominal pain can be a sign of a serious medical condition and should not be ignored.

Be sure to contact your healthcare provider or visit the emergency room if the pain is persistent and severe.

Recognizing the Severity of Abdominal Pain

• Abdominal pain can have various causes, intensities, durations, and associated symptoms.
• Immediate medical intervention is necessary for severe abdominal pain.
• Mild cases may resolve without specific treatment.

Understanding the Source of Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can originate from multiple factors, with some resolving independently while others requiring urgent medical attention. Children may experience specific causes of abdominal pain.

Assess your symptoms using the Symptom Checker to determine if seeking medical attention is warranted.

Recognizing Signs of Serious Abdominal Pain

It is important to recognize signs of serious abdominal pain as it could indicate a critical condition. Some causes of severe abdominal pain include:

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Appendicitis
• Bowel obstruction
• Diverticulitis
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Gallstones
• Heart attack
• Kidney stones

More Information on Critical Conditions

Abdominal aortic aneurysm is a serious condition that results from the abnormal bulging of a weakened blood vessel wall.

Symptoms of a ruptured AAA may include sudden severe abdominal pain, fainting, nausea, and vomiting.

Dealing with Appendicitis

Appendicitis often presents with sharp pain in the lower right abdomen that worsens with movement. Untreated appendicitis can lead to complications and may require surgery.

Understanding Bowel Obstruction

Bowel obstruction can cause cramping abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Surgery may be necessary depending on the severity of the obstruction.

More on Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is characterized by inflammation or infection of abnormal pouches in the bowel wall. Symptoms include left-sided abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits. The risk of diverticulitis increases with age.

Recognizing Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy occurs outside the uterus and can lead to severe complications. Symptoms may include pain, bleeding, and discomfort.

Dealing with Gallstones

Gallstones can cause severe upper right abdominal pain, often accompanied by nausea. Complications such as pancreatitis can also occur.

Understanding Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Heart attacks may present as chest pain that can radiate to the jaw, arms, neck, or back. Other symptoms may include upper abdominal pain, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.

Women may experience different symptoms than chest pain.

Recognizing Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones can cause sudden renal colic pain, starting as gripping back pain under the ribs and radiating to the abdomen or groin in waves.

Other symptoms may include fever, nausea, vomiting, and an urge to urinate. Kidney stones are more common in older individuals.

Utilize Health Services – The Service Finder can help you locate healthcare providers, pharmacies, and hospitals near you.

Managing Chronic Abdominal Pain

Chronic abdominal pain persists for at least three months, occurring continuously or intermittently. Causes can include:

• coeliac disease
• GORD (reflux)
• inflammatory bowel disease
• irritable bowel disease
• lactose intolerance
• peptic ulcers
• period pain
• certain cancers

Understanding Coeliac Disease Symptoms

Coeliac disease may present with persistent abdominal pain and other gastrointestinal symptoms like cramping, diarrhea, bloating, flatulence, and weight loss.

Addressing GORD Symptoms

GORD can cause discomfort or burning upper abdominal pain known as heartburn. Additional symptoms may involve:

• belching and bloating pain
• indigestion
• acid taste in mouth

Symptoms may worsen after specific foods, large meals, or lying down.

Recognizing Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Features include:

• crampy abdominal pain
• diarrhea
• urgency to defecate

Stool may contain blood or mucus.

Understanding Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Disease

Irritable bowel disease can result in cramping abdominal pain, bloating, and alternating constipation or diarrhea. Pain might alleviate after passing gas or having a bowel movement.

Dealing with Lactose Intolerance

Inadequate lactose digestion can lead to:

• abdominal pain and cramps
• bloating
• diarrhea

Addressing Peptic Ulcers

Peptic ulcers can induce dull upper abdominal pain that comes and goes, especially at night. Pain might ease with antacids or food but exacerbate with certain foods in some instances.

Peptic ulcer disease is linked to NSAIDs use and alcohol consumption.

Immediately seek medical attention if:

• vomiting blood
• passing bloody or tarry stools

These symptoms could signify a bleeding ulcer requiring urgent medical care.

Understanding Menstrual Period Pain

Cramping lower abdominal pain experienced during menstruation is referred to as period pain.

Recognizing Cancer-Related Symptoms

Cancers affecting abdominal organs, such as bowel or stomach cancer, can lead to progressively worsening abdominal pain.

Managing Mild Abdominal Pain

Most Australians may encounter mild or moderate abdominal pain occasionally, with many cases resolving on their own. Causes can include:

• gastroenteritis or food poisoning
• urinary tract infections
• gastritis

Dealing with Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis typically lasts a few days and can cause:

• crampy abdominal pain
• nausea and vomiting
• diarrhea
• fever

It can be severe for young and older individuals due to the risk of dehydration.

Addressing Urinary Tract Infections

UTIs may lead to dull lower abdominal pain along with flank pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

Understanding Gastritis Symptoms

Inflammation of the stomach lining, often due to infection, medications, or alcohol, can result in upper abdominal pain, indigestion, and nausea.

Identifying Medication-Related Abdominal Pain

Certain medications, such as NSAIDs, aspirin, or drugs for dementia symptoms, can cause abdominal pain. Consult a healthcare provider if suspecting medication-related pain.

Inquire with Your Doctor — Use the Question Builder to obtain advice on what to discuss with your GP or specialist.

Further Resources

• The Gut Foundation (GESA)

If you need assistance with abdominal pain, don’t hesitate to get in touch with healthdirect at 1800 022 222 (NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) to talk to a nurse.
### Discover More about Abdominal Pain
Headaches, meningitis, and digestive issues are possible causes of abdominal discomfort. Feel free to consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns.
Visit MedicineNet to learn more about these conditions, their symptoms, and available treatments.
## Labyrinthitis
This condition involves inflammation of the inner ear, leading to balance and hearing problems caused by viral infections.
## Gastroenteritis
Typically characterized by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, gastroenteritis is often brought on by various viruses and bacteria. Severe cases may require hospitalization to prevent dehydration.
## Meningitis
Meningitis refers to the inflammation of the spinal cord and brain membranes, presenting symptoms like fever, headache, and neck stiffness. The appropriate treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Empower yourself by adopting a healthy lifestyle, practicing preventive measures, following nutritional plans, and engaging in regular exercise. Educate yourself about different health conditions for a better quality of life.
### Understanding Abdominal Pain
From the chest to the groin, abdominal pain can manifest as stomach discomfort.
## Types of Abdominal Pain
Most cases of abdominal pain are not severe, and the intensity does not always correspond to the seriousness of the condition. It’s important to seek medical attention for any troubling symptoms, as the level of pain does not necessarily indicate the severity of the condition.
Descriptions of different types of pain include:
– Generalized pain may indicate a stomach virus, indigestion, or gas. Severe cases could point to intestinal blockage.
– Localized pain is typically linked to issues in organs like the appendix, gallbladder, or stomach.
– Cramp-like pain is often a result of gas and bloating, sometimes accompanied by diarrhea. More concerning signs include increased frequency, lasting over 24 hours, or with fever/rectal bleeding.
– Colicky pain is characterized by severe, intermittent waves often caused by kidney stones or gallstones.
## Causes of Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain can stem from various conditions. Knowing when to seek immediate medical attention is crucial. Sometimes, symptoms may only warrant contacting a healthcare provider if they persist.
Less severe causes may include:
– Constipation
– Food allergies or intolerance (e.g., lactose intolerance)
Other potential causes can include:
### Home Remedies for Mild Abdominal Pain
To alleviate mild abdominal pain at home, consider the following:
– Stay hydrated with water or clear fluids. Diabetics should monitor blood sugar levels.
– Avoid solid food initially.
– If vomiting, wait 6 hours, then consume mild foods like rice or applesauce. Avoid dairy.
– For upper abdominal pain after meals, consider antacids for indigestion. Stay away from certain foods and beverages.
– Consult your healthcare provider before taking any medications.
Additional preventive measures include:
– Staying adequately hydrated
– Opting for smaller, frequent meals
– Incorporating regular exercise
– Reducing gas-producing foods
– Ensuring balanced, fiber-rich meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables
### When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Reach out for immediate medical assistance or call emergency services if you:
– Are under cancer treatment
– Experience difficulty passing stool, with accompanying vomiting
– Observe blood in vomit or stool, especially if bright red or black/tarry
– Feel chest, neck, or shoulder pain
– Suffer from sudden, intense abdominal pain
– Notice shoulder blade pain with nausea
– Experience a tender, hard abdomen or rigidity
– Are pregnant or possibly pregnant
– Have recently injured the abdomen
– Face breathing issues
Contact your healthcare provider if you:
– Have abdominal discomfort persisting over a week
– Experience abdominal pain worsening or lasting over 24-48 hours, accompanied by nausea and vomiting
– Deal with bloating lasting beyond 2 days
– Feel a burning sensation or have frequent urination
– Have diarrhea lasting more than 5 days
– Have a prolonged fever with pain
– Experience persistent poor appetite
– Have continued vaginal bleeding
– Notice unexplained weight loss
– Are unable to retain food or liquids
## Medical Examination for Abdominal Pain
During a physical examination, your provider will inquire about symptoms, medical history, and conduct tests to determine the cause based on pain location, type, and timing.
### Anatomical Review
– Stomach pain
– Abdomen pain
– Belly aches
– Abdominal cramps
– Stomachaches
### Important Landmarks
– Anatomical markers in adults
– Abdominal organs
– Abdominal quadrants
– Appendicitis
– Kidney function
### References:
Landmann A, Bonds M, Postier R. Acute abdomen. In: Townsend CM Jr, Beauchamp RD, Evers BM, Mattox KL, eds. *Sabiston Textbook of Surgery*. 21st ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2022:chap 46.
Martinez JP. Abdominal pain. In: Walls RM, ed. *Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice*. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 23.
McQuaid KR. Approach to the patient with gastrointestinal disease. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. *Goldman-Cecil Medicine*. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 118.
Weber F. Gastrointestinal and hepatic manifestations of systemic diseases. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. *Sleisenger and Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease*. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 37.
## Reviewed by:
Dr. Jenifer K. Lehrer, Department of Gastroenterology, Aria – Jefferson Health Torresdale, Jefferson Digestive Diseases Network, Philadelphia, PA. Reviewed by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by Dr. David C. Dugdale, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
### Provider of Health Content
Last updated on 06/01/2028
A.D.A.M., Inc. is URAC-accredited as a Health Content Provider (www.urac.org). URAC’s accreditation confirms A.D.A.M.’s adherence to high standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is a pioneer in online health information and services, meeting rigorous criteria. For details on A.D.A.M.’s editorial policy, processes, and privacy policy, visit their website.