Additional information on abdominal pain in adults:

Abdominal pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including digestive issues, infections, inflammation, or even stress. It is important to pay attention to the location, duration, and severity of the pain to help healthcare professionals make an accurate diagnosis.

Common causes of abdominal pain include:

• Indigestion or gas: Eating too quickly, consuming fatty or spicy foods, or swallowing air can lead to abdominal discomfort.
• Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by viral or bacterial infections, resulting in diarrhea, vomiting, and cramps.
• Peptic ulcers: Open sores in the lining of the stomach or small intestine, often caused by the Helicobacter pylori bacteria or prolonged use of NSAIDs.
• Gallstones: Hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can cause sudden and intense pain in the upper abdomen or right shoulder.
• Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine, often characterized by sharp pain in the lower right abdomen.
• Constipation: Difficulty passing stools due to dehydration, lack of fiber, or certain medications, leading to abdominal discomfort.
• IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome): A chronic condition affecting the large intestine, causing cramping, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.

If you are experiencing severe or persistent abdominal pain, along with other symptoms such as fever, blood in the stool, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing abdominal pain effectively.

In addition to severe or prolonged pain, there are other signs and symptoms that may indicate a need to see a doctor for abdominal pain. These include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Fever
• Bloody stools
• Pain during urination
• Swelling or tenderness in the abdomen

If you experience any of these symptoms along with abdominal pain, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Symptoms of abdominal pain in adults

Abdominal pain can vary in severity and characteristics, ranging from sharp to dull or cramp-like. Consulting a healthcare provider is necessary to determine the urgency of your condition.

Causes of abdominal pain in adults

There are several conditions that can trigger abdominal pain, including:

• Appendicitis
• Gallstones
• Infections
• Pregnancy-related issues

Seeking medical attention is essential for an accurate diagnosis.

Abdominal pain may also be a symptom of underlying conditions unrelated to the abdomen. Consult a doctor if you experience persistent or severe pain.

Diagnosis of abdominal pain in adults

Physicians will conduct specific inquiries and examinations to accurately diagnose abdominal pain. Seek immediate medical attention for severe or worsening symptoms.

Where is the pain?

Identifying the precise location of the pain is critical in diagnosing the cause. Consult a healthcare professional if the pain radiates or persists, as it may indicate underlying issues.

When did the pain start?

Abdominal pain can be classified as acute (lasting less than a day or 2), persistent (lasting longer than a day or 2), or chronic (lasting more than 2 weeks).

How severe is the pain?

Healthcare providers will request you to rate the pain on a scale of 1 to 10. Mild pain could fall within the range of 3 to 4, noticeable but not severe enough to impede daily activities.

Severe pain halts all activities. Pain from conditions like gallstones or kidney stones is often severe.

Does the pain come and go?

Colic refers to abdominal pain that comes and goes in waves, typically caused by the contraction of organs like the bowel, gallbladder, or urinary tract. Pain from other organs may be constant.

Have you had this pain before?

Gallstone and kidney stone pain tends to recur every few months.

Severe period pain may suggest underlying issues such as endometriosis. Pain in the middle of the menstrual cycle could be due to an ovarian follicle.

What events led up to the pain?

Factors like recent trauma, medication intake, or alcohol consumption could trigger pancreatitis.

Are there associated features?

Blood in the urine and flank pain are indicative of kidney stones. Vomiting accompanied by central abdominal pain might point towards a small bowel obstruction.

Do you have a history of previous surgery or radiation therapy to the abdomen?

Complications from recent surgery can lead to abdominal pain. Scarring resulting from surgery or radiation therapy may cause bowel obstruction.

Examinations and tests

Examinations and diagnostic tests may include rectal, penile, or pelvic exams, blood and urine tests, ECG, x-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, and endoscopy.

The results will be discussed by the doctor and shared with your primary physician.

Treatment for abdominal pain in adults

The treatment for abdominal pain depends on the underlying cause and may involve pain management, fluid administration, medications, or dietary adjustments.

Common treatments for abdominal pain include:

• Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate abdominal pain. In more severe cases, prescription pain medications may be necessary.
• Fluid administration: If dehydration is contributing to the abdominal pain, intravenous fluids may be administered to rehydrate the body.
• Medications: Depending on the cause of the abdominal pain, medications such as antibiotics, antacids, or antispasmodics may be prescribed to relieve symptoms.
• Dietary adjustments: In cases where certain foods trigger abdominal pain, a change in diet may be recommended. This could involve avoiding spicy or fatty foods, increasing fiber intake, or following a specific dietary plan.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for abdominal pain, as the underlying cause can vary greatly.

Taking care of yourself at home

Most cases of abdominal pain resolve without specific treatment. You can try using a hot water bottle, soaking in a warm bath, consuming fluids, avoiding certain foods, and ensuring adequate rest.

Where to get help

• Your GP (doctor)

Need treatment today?

If you require non-life-threatening treatment urgently and cannot secure an appointment with your GP, consider utilizing healthdirect Australia for guidance.

healthdirect Australia provides complimentary consultations with nurses or doctors.

If you are experiencing severe abdominal pain, head to the nearest hospital emergency department or dial 000 for ambulance services.

Key facts

• Pain in your abdomen may manifest as aching, stabbing, burning, twisting, cramping, or dull.

What is abdominal pain?

Abdominal pain can range from mild to severe, acute to chronic, recurrent, or colicky. Various terms are used to describe abdominal pain.

What symptoms are related to abdominal pain?

Tummy pain can vary in intensity and location, accompanied by symptoms like belching, burping, vomiting, and changes in bowel movements.

Providing detailed descriptions of your symptoms to your doctor can aid in determining the cause of abdominal pain.

What causes abdominal pain?

Abdominal pain can stem from issues with the gut, bowel, kidneys, reproductive organs, or even as a side effect of certain medications. Consulting with your healthcare provider is recommended.

Common causes of abdominal pain include:

• Indigestion or gas
• Stomach flu or food poisoning
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Appendicitis
• Urinary tract infections
• Menstrual cramps
• Gallstones

If you experience persistent or severe abdominal pain, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

How is the cause of abdominal pain diagnosed?

Healthcare professionals will take various factors into account and may suggest diagnostic tests or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment.

When should I see my doctor?

Consult a doctor if you experience recurrent, persistent, or worsening abdominal pain. Seek medical attention for abnormal vaginal bleeding or changes in bowel habits as well.

If you notice any bleeding, abdominal swelling, unexplained weight loss, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or fevers, seek medical advice. For severe abdominal pain, head to the emergency department immediately. If the pain worsens over hours, wakes you up from sleep, spreads to your neck, chest, or shoulders, or is coupled with bleeding from your bowel, blood in your urine, persistent vomiting, inability to urinate, fever, bloated abdomen, or a general feeling of unwellness, seek urgent medical care. Abdominal pain that worsens with exercise high up in your abdomen could be indicative of angina or a heart attack. Call emergency services immediately if you experience symptoms of a heart attack. Treatment for abdominal pain is based on the underlying cause. Mild pain may resolve on its own, but staying hydrated, avoiding certain foods, resting, and using pain relief methods may be beneficial. Pharmacies offer medications like pain relievers, antispasmodics, anti-flatulence drugs, and antacids for relief. Unless for period pain, avoid using aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs. Lifestyle changes such as adopting a high-fiber diet, staying active, keeping hydrated, and limiting alcohol intake can promote gut health. Tailoring your diet to conditions like lactose intolerance or coeliac disease may provide relief. For additional information and support, reach out to resources like The Gut Foundation (GESA) or contact healthdirect or NURSE-ON-CALL for guidance on managing abdominal pain.