Enduring Stomach Pain?
Pardeep Singh
| 21-11-2024
· Science Team
Dear Lykkers! Stomach pain is a common issue that most of us tend to ignore, believing it will go away on its own. However, certain types of stomach pain can indicate serious health problems that require immediate medical attention.
Here's a guide to understanding when stomach pain is more than just a passing discomfort.
1. Sudden and Severe Pain in the Lower Right Abdomen
Possible Cause: Appendicitis
Appendicitis is a medical emergency that occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed. The pain starts near the belly button and moves to the lower right abdomen, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever.
What to Do
Seek immediate medical care. Delaying treatment can lead to a ruptured appendix, which is life-threatening.
2. Intense Burning Pain in the Upper Abdomen
Possible Cause: Stomach Ulcers or Gastritis
A burning sensation in the stomach may indicate an ulcer or inflammation caused by excessive stomach acid. It may worsen on an empty stomach or after spicy meals.
What to Do
Consult a doctor for medications to reduce stomach acid and follow a diet that avoids trigger foods.
Abdominal Pain, Causes, Signs and Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment.
Video by Medical Centric
3. Pain in the Upper Right Abdomen After Meals
Possible Cause: Gallstones
Gallstones cause sharp pain in the upper right abdomen, especially after fatty meals. This pain may radiate to your back or right shoulder.
What to Do
Visit a doctor for imaging tests. Surgery might be necessary to remove the gallbladder if gallstones are severe.
4. Cramping and Diarrhea That Persists
Possible Cause: IBS or IBD
Chronic abdominal cramping, diarrhea, or constipation could be symptoms of IBS or IBD. Both conditions require lifestyle changes and medical management.
What to Do
Maintain a food diary to identify triggers and seek advice from a gastroenterologist for proper treatment.
5. Stomach Pain with Fever and Red Stool
Possible Cause: Intestinal Infection or Severe IBD
Fever coupled with red stool is a red flag. It could mean a bacterial or parasitic infection or a severe flare-up of IBD.
What to Do
Immediate medical attention is crucial to determine the cause and start appropriate treatment.
6. Persistent Pain That Wakes You Up at Night
Possible Cause: Pancreatitis or Peptic Ulcers
Persistent abdominal pain that disrupts sleep is often a sign of a severe issue like pancreatitis or ulcers.
What to Do
Do not ignore the pain. Consult a healthcare provider for diagnostic tests and treatment.
7. Generalized Pain That Becomes Localized
Possible Cause: Peritonitis
Peritonitis occurs when an infection spreads to the abdominal lining, often due to a ruptured appendix. The pain starts as generalized discomfort and becomes sharp and localized.
What to Do
Peritonitis is a medical emergency. Head to the hospital immediately.
Stomach pain is not always harmless. Persistent, sharp, or unusual abdominal pain should never be ignored, as it could signal a serious medical condition. Early diagnosis and treatment can save you from severe complications. Always consult a doctor if alarming symptoms like fever, vomiting, or bright red stool accompany your stomach pain.