What causes abdominal pain?

Pain can feel cramping, burning, stabbing, aching, or bloated. Gas, constipation, food intolerance, and irritable bowel syndrome may cause discomfort that changes after eating or passing stool. Peptic ulcer disease or Helicobacter Pylori Infection can cause upper abdominal burning. Kidney Stones may cause severe pain in the side that moves towards the groin. An Inguinal Hernia may produce a groin lump or ache that worsens with lifting. Pancreatitis can cause strong upper-abdominal pain that may spread to the back. Threadworms and other infections are additional possibilities, especially when itching, diarrhoea, vomiting, or fever is present.

Note where the pain is, when it began, what makes it better or worse, and whether meals, bowel movements, urination, or movement affect it. Sip fluids and choose light meals if eating feels uncomfortable. Avoid alcohol and foods that clearly trigger symptoms. Do not take repeated pain medicine or laxatives without checking that they are suitable, particularly when the cause is uncertain. Arrange a medical assessment if pain keeps returning, lasts beyond a short period, or comes with weight loss, persistent vomiting, or altered bowel habits.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden severe pain, a rigid or very tender abdomen, fainting, confusion, vomiting blood, black stools, blood in urine, trouble breathing, or inability to keep fluids down. Prompt assessment is also needed with fever and worsening pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or pain during pregnancy. These features can signal a problem needing examination rather than home treatment.

Ask which examination or tests could identify the pain's location and cause, whether your medicines or diet may contribute, and which symptoms should prompt immediate review. Mention previous abdominal surgery, pregnancy possibility, bowel or urinary changes, and any family history of digestive disease.