Abdominal pain generally refers to any discomfort that you feel in between the chest and pelvis. The discomfort or pain in the abdomen ranges in intensity from mild to severe. Many people experience abdominal pain at one point or another. Some abdominal pain can resolve on its own without any treatment while some can get into a serious condition.
Abdominal pain also known as sore stomach, tummy pain, stomach cramps, belly ache, stomach pain, and wind pain. Abdominal pain can suddenly occur (acute) or it can be recurrent or something you will experience every now and then.
Abdominal pain can turn into a chronic condition. In other words, it will be an ongoing problem that lasts up to 3 months and above. Abdominal pain can also be progressive, starting off as mild then worsening steadily. There are different types of abdominal pain which includes colicky, dull, stabbing, burning, cramping, and aching.
How Abdominal Pain is Diagnosed
This condition is one of the most prevalent cases seen by general practitioners. The location and types of pain accompanied with other symptoms could help doctors diagnose the cause of the pain accurately. For males, finding the cause can involve checking the scrotum and penis. For females, it can include a pelvic examination.
Test and procedures that might be suggested include:
- Urine test
- MRI scan
- Ultrasound
- X-ray
- Colonoscopy
- Endoscopy
- CT scan
How Abdominal Pain is Treated
Generally, treatment for abdominal pain will depend primarily on the underlying cause. If the abdominal pain is mild, it will often disappear on its own in days or even hours without any treatment. Other specific treatments will depend on the cause of the symptom. For instance:
Crohn’s Bowel Diseases (Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease)
Flare ups caused by said conditions can be treated using a vast range of medications. To ensure future flare-ups are avoided, the medications might be taken on an ongoing basis.
Gas
Medications that can break down gas bubbles can be bought over the counter. Charcoal products and other gas-reducing medicines can also help those patients with an ongoing wind problem. Making a few dietary changes can also work wonders.
Duodenal Ulcers or Stomach Ulcers
This type of abdominal pain is typically managed by healing the ulcers. Once the ulcers are treated, the abdominal pain will resolve. Medications that are used to treat stomach ulcers or duodenal ulcers can include antibiotics and acid-reducing medications.
Gastroenteritis
This pain often lasts only a few days and will disappear on its own. Drinking plenty of fluids to ensure you stay hydrated is important.
Acid Reflux (GERD)
GERD can be managed by taking certain medications that control the stomach acid. Making lifestyle changes is also advised to effectively manage the condition.
If the abdominal pain is just mild, the following tips may be recommended:
- Placing a warm pack or hot water pack on the abdomen
- Getting sufficient rest
- Restricting alcohol and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
Ways to Prevent Stomach Pain
Exercising regularly and eating fiber rich foods could prevent constipation and ensure your bowels are working well. In a way, it helps to prevent abdominal pain. When the bowels are working as they should, it will minimize your risk for developing certain conditions like bowel cancer or diverticular disease.
Besides, drinking water instead of fizzy or carbonated drinks can help in minimizing the chances of pain caused by bloating, also keeping the body healthy with its peak condition. Proper nutrition is important especially if you deal with chronic pain. Eating healthy meals and choosing the right food can decrease the pain caused by various conditions like gallstones, lactose intolerance, and trapped wind or gas.
