Abdominal Pain

AAll women feel some pain in the lower part of their abdomen now and then. Monthly periods are the most probable reason connected to these pains. Often, pinpointing the precise cause of this pain through diagnosis is not easy. Keeping specific records of abdominal pain trends will give your doctor the necessary clues to reach the correct diagnosis.

A dull  pain or abdominal cramps is usually termed as a stomach ache. This is usually short lived and many times will disappear without medication. Stomach cramps usually result from bloating or trapped wind.

This is a common condition that can easily be brought under control. This can be embarrassing in public, if left unchecked. Charcoal tablets are an example of over-the-counter medication that can remedy the wind condition.

Severe abdominal pain is a serious medical problem. If you get a sharp pain concentrated somewhere in your midsection without warning, seek medical attention. Sudden severe abdominal pain could be an early sign of an illness that would worsen if left unattended.    

Causes of Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can result from many causes. Urinary disorders form the bulk of  frequently noted cases. These include malfunctions in the kidney, bladder, bowel and the reproductive system.

Reproductive system malfunctions affect the fallopian tubes, ovaries and uterus. Inflamed tiny pouches that form part of the bowels can also be a cause of  abdominal pain. These are mainly caused by diverticulitis.

Heart burn and acid reflux are other common causes of abdominal pain. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acids leak back to the esophagus from the stomach. The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth or throat to the stomach.

The urinary system is also responsible for stomach pain. Frequent urination and a burning sensation as you pass urine, are common symptoms associated with urine infections. The kidneys can also get infected. As the infection spreads, back pain and high temperatures are likely to accompany the symptoms.

Periodic syndrome is common in children and is very much like irritable syndrome that affects adults. It manifests itself by recurring series of stomach pain. Other factors responsible for abdominal pain in children may include anxiety and depression.

Peptic ulcers are among the leading causes of abdominal pain. A peptic ulcer that is perforated develops on your duodenum or stomachs’ inside lining. This can even break through the lining of the upper small intestines or duodenum.

Adults experiencing repeated series or persistent  abdominal pain  should seek medical attention. Nonetheless this should not be a cause for alarm. Long term persistent pain has no serious cause and is easily manageable.

Abdominal pain could be as a result of appendicitis. This is more likely if the pain is concentrated to your right lower abdomen. Such severe pain could come without warning and your appendicitis will have to be surgically removed.

Tiny stones that form inside the gallbladder are called gallstones. These can often lead to serious abdominal pain. In some cases the gallbladder may need to be extracted.

Kidney stones become a high possibility, if severe pain descends from your back, to your groin area. Your urine may have the tiny stones passed along with it. The bigger stones may block the tubes in your kidneys.

These will have to be broken down in hospital. These symptoms will prompt your doctor to run urine tests. If blood is present in your urine, inform your doctor for more investigations.

A urinary tract infection is a condition that is colicky. It keeps coming and going. It is usually accompanied by a burning sensation when passing urine.

Tumors affecting the urinary system are rare. Your doctor will take into consideration how long you’ve had your symptoms. A tummy bug called gastroenteritis may be the cause if your recent stomach cramps.

Gastroenteritis occurs when an infection appears in the bowel and stomach and may be accompanied by diarrhoea. It is usually caused by a virus or bacteria.  The immune system is capable of fighting off the infection in a matter of days, even without medication.

Severe illness causing fever and chills may arise from serious stomach cramps and diarrhoea. This could be as a result of food poisoning or an equally dire infection. Usually this will disappear on its own. If not, it may be a long term condition like irritable bowel syndrome.

Intestinal and Reproductive Organ Conditions Leading to Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain  can result from both diarrhoea and constipation. This pain is termed as Colicky, referring to a wave of pain that comes and disappears. Some common pain that  affects the bowels is swelling and bloating.

Worldwide, many people are affected by irritable bowel syndrome. Symptoms usually include bloating, constipation and diarrhoea. This condition may cause the walls of your bowel to tighten or have spasms. This causes you pain when visiting the toilet.

Only when your doctor is sure of no other likely cause of your symptoms, can he carefully  diagnose Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Any fresh bleeding from your anus or passing of black stool should not be overlooked.  These should be reported to the doctor for further investigation.

Abdominal pain can emanate from your womb/uterus, ovaries or fallopian tube. This pain occurs in the mid lower abdominal area. If you experience side lower abdominal pain, it is most likely coming from the ovary. Pain originating in the uterus heightens during your monthly periods.

This pain is referred to as dysmenorrhea. Conditions affecting the reproductive system can also result in pain while having sexual intercourse. The likely condition is referred to as dyspareunia which needs your doctors attention.

Pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, fibroids and ovarian cysts are some conditions of the reproductive system. Others include ectopic pregnancy and early pregnancy complications such as miscarriage. Regular medical checks ups can help to curb the possibility of these conditions.

Abdominal Pain Treatment Course

Expect intensive questioning from your doctor from issues regarding passing of urine, bowel movements to your monthly periods. Required information will include general symptoms, like vomiting nausea and fever. Appropriate questions may include sex life, home, work, family and emotional life.

Questions from your doctor will be followed by physical examinations. The abdominal exams may include internal rectal or vaginal examinations or possibly both. A urine sample may also be required to test for infections. A vaginal swab will be required in case of any virginal discharge or similar symptoms.

Your individual symptoms and respective durations will determine further necessary investigations. An ultra sound of your pelvis and abdomen may be required. If necessary, an abdominal pain specialist may be required.