Abdominal pain refers to pain or discomfort occurring anywhere in the area between the ribs and the pelvis. It can arise from various organs and systems, including the digestive system, reproductive system, urinary tract, or muscles. The severity may range from mild conditions, such as bloating or constipation, to life-threatening emergencies, such as appendicitis.
Observing the location of the pain may help identify possible underlying causes:
- Upper abdomen / epigastric area:
May be associated with gastritis, acid reflux, gallstones, or pancreatitis. - Lower abdomen:
May be related to the appendix, intestines, or in women, the ovaries and fallopian tubes. - Left or right flank pain:
Often associated with kidney stones or kidney infections.
When should you seek immediate medical attention?
You should seek urgent medical evaluation if abdominal pain is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:
- Severe or sudden abdominal pain, or a rigid/hard abdomen
- Persistent nausea or vomiting, or inability to eat or drink
- High fever or chills
- Blood in the stool, black/tarry stools, or vomiting blood
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Pain so severe that you cannot sit still or find a comfortable position to rest
