When is Abdominal Pain Serious?

(NewsUSA) - Just about everybody has experienced an occasional bellyache. But how can you decide when abdominal pain is serious? While most abdominal pain isn't serious, persistent or severe pain should not be ignored.

Abdominal pain can originate in the gastrointestinal tract but may also come from the abdominal wall or other organ systems. Abdominal cramps or burning discomfort are commonly reported types of pain and are typically short lived and mild. If you are experiencing abdominal pain that lasts for hours or days or that is severe enough to interfere with daily activities, you should seek medical attention.

In terms of gastrointestinal causes of abdominal pain or discomfort, peptic ulcers create gnawing stomach pain, which is sometimes relieved by eating. Bloating after meals is a vague symptom that has been associated with gall bladder problems to abnormal levels of bacteria in the small intestine. Sometimes a viral or bacterial infection can cause abdominal pain or discomfort, as can common gastrointestinal problems such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome, and chronic inflammatory conditions of the small or large intestine.

The digestive health experts from the American College of Gastroenterology share important signs that tell you when to see a doctor.

- Persistent Pain. Does the pain impair your ability to work or do routine activities? If stomach pain is steady, severe or regularly recurring, see a physician.

- Changes in Bowel Movements. Abdominal pain or discomfort that is associated with diarrhea, constipation or changes in stool size or color may indicate gastrointestinal illness. Black, tarry stool or bloody stool warrants an immediate trip to the doctor's office.

- Loss of Appetite or Weight. If you notice a persistent loss in appetite or unintentional weight loss of more than 5 to 10 pounds, you need to see a doctor. Serious conditions like stomach or intestinal cancer can cause people to feel full early into meals. Ulcers can also lead to weight loss.

- Trouble Sleeping. Pain that awakens someone from sleep is regarded as potentially serious. If abdominal pain interrupts your nightly repose, consult a physician.

- Medications. You should see your doctor if you have abdominal pain or discomfort and are taking any medicines that can cause ulcers, such as aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, commonly used or prescribed for arthritis or headaches.

Seek immediate medical attention if your abdominal pain is accompanied by fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, yellow skin or eye discoloration, or swelling of the abdomen.

Most patients with abdominal pain do not have serious conditions and can be diagnosed and treated successfully. Being familiar with the clues that suggest more serious causes of abdominal pain, and seeking prompt medical attention if any of these symptoms are present, are important parts of staying healthy. For more information, visit www.acg.gi.org.

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