What is abdominal pain?

Abdominal pain is a feeling of discomfort in your stomach, pelvis, or other areas within your abdominal cavity. The discomfort could feel like a dull, aching pain, sharp discomfort, shooting pain, cause nausea or vomiting, or pain that comes and goes.

Nearly everyone experiences abdominal pain from time to time, but it could signify a serious underlying problem. JAM Wellness Clinics providers can find the root cause of abdominal pain and treat it when needed to reduce symptoms and your risk of complications.

What are the common causes of abdominal pain?

If you have abdominal discomfort, it could be because of the following reasons:

• Appendicitis
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Diabetes complications
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Heart issues
• Injuries
• Ectopic pregnancy in women
• Gynecological problems in women
• Menstrual cramps in women
• Intestinal obstruction
• Kidney infection or kidney stones
• Gallstones
• Ruptured spleen
• Pancreatitis
• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Torn colon
• Celiac disease
• Cancer
• Hernia
• Ulcer
• Flu

Abdominal pain may be mild, moderate, or severe and the sign of a serious problem requiring immediate medical attention.

How does my doctor diagnose the cause of abdominal pain?

To find the root cause of abdominal pain and get treated for it if needed, family medicine specialists at JAM Wellness Clinics discuss your symptoms and medical history. They check your vital signs, complete a physical examination, and assess the level of your discomfort. Your provider could feel areas of your abdomen and pelvis to detect or rule out specific problems.

They often recommend diagnostic tests to make a final diagnosis and develop an effective treatment. Examples include urine tests, blood tests, stool tests, nasal or throat swabs, ultrasounds, CT scans, X-rays, or other imaging procedures, as well as endoscopy or heart function testing.

What are my treatment options?

The abdominal pain treatment that’s best for you depends on the cause and severity of discomfort you have. The JAM Wellness Clinics team could recommend making diet or other lifestyle changes, trying home remedies, receiving injections, or taking dietary supplements or prescription medications.

In some cases, you may need a minor surgical procedure. JAM Wellness Clinics providers can refer you to highly trained specialists if needed to ensure you receive the most appropriate care.

If you struggle with severe or ongoing abdominal pain, schedule a visit with the JAM Wellness Clinics team by phone or online today.