Abdominal pain is one of the common health complaints that can be seen in people of all ages and can significantly affect daily life. While it sometimes stems from simple causes such as short-term gas compression or indigestion, in some cases it may also be a sign of serious diseases requiring urgent medical evaluation. Therefore, the location, duration, severity, accompanying symptoms, and general health status of the person with abdominal pain should be evaluated together.
Abdominal pain may sometimes occur after meals or can develop suddenly. Feeling pain in the right lower abdomen, left upper abdomen, around the navel, or in the lower abdominal region may suggest different organs. Abdominal pain accompanied by fever, vomiting, blood in the stool, fainting, severe tenderness, or pain developing during pregnancy must be evaluated by a doctor without delay.
What is Abdominal Pain?
Abdominal pain is the sensation of pain, discomfort, pressure, burning, cramping, or stabbing felt between the lower part of the rib cage and the groin area. The pain may originate from many different structures such as the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, urinary tract, and reproductive organs.
Because the abdominal region contains numerous organs, the cause of the pain cannot be definitively determined simply by looking at the region where it is felt. Pain felt in the same region can point to different diseases.
Abdominal pain;
- May be mild or severe.
- Can be continuous or intermittent.
- May start suddenly or develop over time.
- Can be felt as sharp, stabbing, burning, or cramping.
When evaluating abdominal pain, doctors pay attention not only to the severity of the pain, but also to;
- The time the pain started,
- Its duration,
- Its location,
- Whether it changes with movement,
- Its relationship with meals,
- Additional symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Most common characteristics of abdominal pain
- Cramping pain
- Burning sensation
- Bloating
- Urge to pass gas
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Sensation of fullness in the abdomen
Abdominal pain is not a disease in itself; it occurs as a common symptom of various health problems.
What is the Difference Between Stomach Pain and Abdominal Pain?
Stomach pain and abdominal pain are frequently confused by the public. However, every stomach pain is abdominal pain, but not every abdominal pain originates from the stomach.
Stomach pain is usually felt just below the breastbone, in the upper abdominal region. It can be seen in conditions such as gastritis, stomach ulcer, reflux, or stomach infections.
Abdominal pain, on the other hand;
- In the upper right abdomen,
- In the upper left abdomen,
- Around the navel,
- In the right or left lower abdomen,
- In the groin
may occur and can originate from different organs.
Symptoms suggesting stomach pain
- Burning after meals
- Heartburn
- Fullness in the stomach
- Belching
- Nausea
Symptoms suggesting abdominal pain
- Gas pain
- Cramping
- Changes in bowel habits
- Pain radiating to the groin
- Pain while urinating
- Menstruation-related pain
- Tenderness in the right lower abdomen
Therefore, it is not accurate to evaluate pain solely as "stomach pain." Evaluation by a doctor is important, especially in long-lasting or severe pains.
What Causes Abdominal Pain?
Abdominal pain can occur for many different reasons. While some causes resolve spontaneously in a short time, others may require medical intervention.
Causes that can lead to abdominal pain may include digestive system diseases, infections, kidney diseases, gynecological conditions, stress, and metabolic diseases.
The most common causes are:
- Gas and indigestion
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Viral gastroenteritis
- Food poisoning
- Lactose intolerance
- Celiac disease
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Appendicitis
- Gallbladder diseases
- Kidney stone
- Urinary tract infection
- Menstrual cramps
- Ovarian diseases
- Pregnancy-related conditions
- Stress and anxiety
The cause of abdominal pain cannot be precisely understood by looking at symptoms alone. Laboratory tests and imaging methods are utilized when necessary.
Gas and Indigestion
Gas accumulation and indigestion are among the most common and usually the most harmless causes of abdominal pain. Eating quickly, swallowing too much air, carbonated drinks, certain vegetables (such as cabbage, broccoli, beans), and excessively fatty meals can lead to gas accumulation in the intestines. This condition usually manifests itself with bloating, a feeling of tightness, and a dull pain.
- Eating meals slowly and chewing thoroughly
- Staying away from carbonated beverages
- Balancing meal frequency
Simple habit changes such as these can help reduce the frequency of such pains.
This clinical picture is generally accompanied by belching, a feeling of bloating, and tension in the abdomen. The discomfort mostly subsides spontaneously within a few hours; however, if it recurs frequently, sharing this situation with a doctor can be beneficial since it may be a sign of an underlying digestive disorder.
Constipation and Diarrhea
Irregularities in bowel movements are among the frequent causes of abdominal pain. While the accumulation of stool in the intestine during constipation leads to tension and cramping pain, the accelerated movement of the intestines in diarrhea similarly causes uncomfortable contractions.
Insufficient fluid intake, a low-fiber diet, a sedentary lifestyle, and certain medications can pave the way for constipation. Diarrhea, on the other hand, can be triggered by different factors such as infections, food intolerances, or stress. When both conditions last long or are accompanied by blood, a doctor must definitely be consulted.
Gastrointestinal Infections
Gastrointestinal infections of viral, bacterial, or parasitic origin (gastroenteritis) are frequent causes of sudden-onset abdominal pain. This picture is usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes fever. Infections are mostly transmitted through contaminated food or water, or by contact with an infected individual.
Although most gastrointestinal infections tend to heal within a few days with supportive measures, if signs of fluid loss (dizziness, dry mouth, decreased urination) appear, it is important to apply to a healthcare institution without wasting time.
Food Poisoning and Intolerances
Food poisoning resulting from the consumption of spoiled or undercooked food usually manifests itself with severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea starting shortly after the meal. Food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance and gluten sensitivity, can lead to recurrent bloating, gas, and cramping pain after consuming certain foods.
Individuals with suspected intolerance taking notes on which foods increase their complaints and sharing this information with his doctor can contribute to the accurate evaluation process.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic condition associated with the functionally irregular functioning of the intestine without a structural disease. It is characterized by the variable coexistence of abdominal pain, bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhea attacks.
Stress, certain foods, and hormonal changes can trigger this condition. Since symptoms can vary from person to person, the evaluation and management of this syndrome must certainly be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.
A distinctive feature of this condition is that, although there is no structural damage in the intestines, the symptoms can significantly affect the quality of daily life. Regulating factors such as diet, sleep quality, and stress management can play a supportive role in reducing the frequency of such complaints; however, it is recommended that these regulations be planned under expert supervision.
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix (the small projection at the end of the cecum) and is a serious condition that may require urgent surgical evaluation. Pain that usually starts around the navel shifts to the lower right region of the abdomen within hours and progressively intensifies. This may be accompanied by loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and a mild fever.
When pain suspected of appendicitis is noticed, applying to the emergency department without losing time is of great importance, because if treatment is delayed, serious complications such as perforation of the appendix (known colloquially as a "ruptured appendix") can develop.
Gallbladder and Pancreatic Diseases
Gallstones, gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), and pancreatic inflammation (pancreatitis) are conditions that can lead to severe pain, particularly in the upper right or mid-upper region of the abdomen. These pains are usually triggered after a fatty meal and can radiate towards the back.
Nausea, vomiting, fever, and in some cases yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice) may accompany them. When such symptoms are noticed, consulting a doctor is required for detailed examination.
Particularly, pancreatitis can lead to a condition that radiates to the waist area, eases when leaning forward, and is usually felt very intensely. Alcohol consumption and certain gallbladder disorders are among the frequent triggers of this condition, and its treatment must definitely be planned under hospital conditions.
Kidney and Urinary Tract Problems
Kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and kidney inflammation can cause pain felt in the flank region or the lower parts of the abdomen. Pain related to kidney stones usually comes in waves, can radiate towards the groin, and may be seen together with a burning sensation while urinating, frequent urination, or blood in the urine.
Such symptoms must definitely be evaluated by an expert to clarify the underlying cause and determine the appropriate approach.
Menstrual and Gynecological Causes
A significant portion of abdominal pain in women is related to the menstrual cycle. Conditions such as menstrual cramps, ovulation pain, endometriosis, and ovarian cysts can lead to pain in the lower abdomen. While this pain sometimes remains at a mild discomfort level, at other times it can be of an intensity that significantly affects daily life.
The relationship of the pain with the menstrual cycle, its intensity, and accompanying symptoms (such as excessive bleeding, irregularity) are important clues that need to be evaluated by an obstetrician and gynecologist.
Stress and Anxiety
Due to the strong connection between the digestive system and the nervous system, intense stress and anxiety conditions can also lead to abdominal pain. This situation is explained by the mechanism referred to as the "gut-brain axis"; stress hormones can affect bowel movements and sensitivity.
Stress-induced abdominal pain is usually felt as a dull, generalized discomfort and may be seen together with other symptoms such as tension and insomnia. In the event that such complaints become continuous, consulting a doctor for both physical and psychological evaluation can be beneficial; if deemed necessary, receiving support from the psychiatry department may be a part of the evaluation process.
What is Good for Abdominal Pain?
In mild abdominal pain that does not carry danger signs, some supportive approaches that can help alleviate the discomfort may be applied. These suggestions are not intended to replace diagnosis or treatment; the nature, intensity, and duration of the pain must be evaluated by a doctor.
Resting
Resting to allow the body to focus on the digestive system is one of the first approaches that can be resorted to in mild abdominal pains. Lying down in a comfortable position with knees pulled slightly towards the abdomen can help reduce tension in the abdominal muscles and provide a sense of relief.
Consuming Adequate Fluids
Adequate fluid intake can help maintain the body's fluid balance, especially in situations that may lead to fluid loss such as diarrhea or vomiting. In addition, adequate water consumption can contribute to alleviating abdominal pain related to constipation by supporting the regular functioning of bowel movements. Although warm herbal teas may create a feeling of relief in some people, it should not be forgotten that herbal products may not be suitable for everyone. It is recommended to consult a doctor before consuming herbal products, especially in cases of pregnancy, chronic illness, or regular medication use.
- Make sure to consume sufficient amounts of water throughout the day.
- Limit caffeinated and carbonated beverages.
- Warm herbal teas may be preferred when deemed appropriate.
Consuming Light and Easily Digestible Foods
Preferring light foods that will not tire the stomach and intestines instead of heavy, complex meals during pain can grant the digestive system a certain opportunity for rest. Options such as boiled vegetables, bananas, and rice porridge are among the examples that can be preferred during this period.
Avoiding Fatty and Spicy Foods
Fatty, fried, and excessively spicy foods can increase existing discomfort by making the stomach and gallbladder work harder. Therefore, temporarily staying away from such foods during abdominal pain can help lighten the load on the digestive system.
Applying Warmth
Applying warmth to the abdominal region (for example, a warm source wrapped in a thin cloth) can support the relaxation of abdominal muscles and the alleviation of the cramping sensation. Care should be taken that the application is not too hot and does not come into direct contact with the skin.
Light Walking and Breathing Exercises
Particularly in pain related to gas and indigestion, a short walk at a light pace can provide relief by supporting bowel movements. Deep and slow breathing exercises can also contribute to reducing tension in the abdominal muscles and the general feeling of relief.
None of these suggestions replace severe, sudden-onset, or long-standing abdominal pain. In such cases, it is important to apply to a healthcare institution without wasting time.
What Foods Are Good for Abdominal Pain?
In mild abdominal pains, preferring light and balanced foods that do not tire the digestive system can generally be supportive. Some notable examples regarding this are included in the table below:
| Food | Why It May Be Supportive |
|---|---|
| Banana | It is easily digested and contains bowel-friendly potassium. |
| Rice and rice porridge | It can soothe the stomach thanks to its low fiber content. |
| Boiled potato and carrot | They are light and easily digestible vegetables. |
| Warm beverages containing ginger | It is traditionally considered soothing for stomach ailments. |
| Chamomile tea | It can provide a soothing effect in some people and can be supportive in mild cramps. |
| Oatmeal | It is light and can support bowel movements with its fiber content. |
| Yogurt (probiotic-containing) | It can contribute to the balancing of the intestinal flora. |
Since the consumption of these foods may vary depending on the individual's underlying condition, it is recommended that the diet plan be arranged under the supervision of a doctor or dietitian, especially in chronic complaints.
Which Foods Should Be Avoided in Abdominal Pain?
It can be beneficial to temporarily stay away from certain food groups that may strain the digestive system during abdominal pain:
- Fatty and fried foods: They can increase discomfort by slowing down stomach emptying.
- Excessively spicy meals: They can irritate the gastric mucosa.
- Carbonated beverages: They can increase gas accumulation in the intestines.
- Caffeinated beverages: They can trigger discomfort by increasing stomach acid secretion.
- Excessively sugary foods: They can negatively affect bowel movements.
- Raw or undercooked foods: They can increase the risk of infection.
- Alcohol: It can irritate the stomach and intestinal mucosa.
Avoiding these foods may vary depending on the cause of the pain; therefore, keeping a food diary in recurrent complaints and sharing this with the doctor can be a beneficial approach.
Particularly in chronic conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, it is known that different foods can act as triggers from person to person. Therefore, the suggestions listed here offer a general framework, and getting support from a dietitian or doctor for personalized nutrition planning is the healthiest approach.
Causes of Abdominal Pain According to the Region of Pain
The region where abdominal pain is felt offers an important clue in understanding the potential cause. The table below summarizes some prominent causes according to abdominal regions; details are located below the table. This information is intended to provide a general framework; the exact cause can only be determined through a doctor's evaluation.
| Region | Prominent Potential Causes |
|---|---|
| Upper right abdomen | Gallstone/cholecystitis, liver disorders |
| Upper left abdomen | Gastritis, stomach ulcer, rarely spleen-related conditions |
| Right lower abdomen | Appendicitis, intestinal infections, pain originating from the right ovary |
| Left lower abdomen | Diverticulitis, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome |
| Around the navel | Gas, indigestion, early stage of appendicitis |
| Lower abdomen (general) | Urinary tract infection, menstruation-related pains, constipation |
Upper Right Abdominal Pain
Pain felt in the upper right abdominal region is most frequently related to the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. Gallstones, gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), and certain liver diseases can cause pain in this region. The pain may appear or intensify especially after fatty meals; it can radiate towards the back, the right shoulder blade, or the right shoulder. If the pain is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever, or yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, a doctor must be consulted without wasting time. In recurrent or progressively intensifying upper right abdominal pain, a doctor's evaluation is important to determine the underlying cause.
Upper Left Abdominal Pain
Pain in the upper left region may be related to the spleen, stomach, or the left side of the pancreas. Gastritis, stomach ulcers, and rarely an enlarged spleen can be counted among the causes that could lead to discomfort in this region.
Right Lower Abdominal Pain
Pain in the right lower abdominal region is an area that needs to be evaluated with particular care in terms of appendicitis. Besides this, intestinal infections and conditions related to the right ovary in women can also cause pain in this region. When a sudden-onset, progressively increasing right lower abdominal pain is noticed, it should be evaluated without wasting time.
Left Lower Abdominal Pain
Pain in the lower left region is frequently associated with the terminal part of the large intestine; diverticulitis (inflammation of small pouches in the intestinal wall), constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome are among the causes that can be seen in this region. Conditions related to the left ovary in women can also lead to pain in this region.
Abdominal Pain Around the Navel
Pain around the navel is usually associated with the small intestine and can stem from common causes such as gas and indigestion. However, in the early stage of appendicitis, it is also a common course for the pain to start around the navel and shift to the lower right region over time.
Lower Abdominal Pain
Pain in the lower abdominal region can be associated with urinary tract infections, constipation, menstrual cramps, and gynecological causes. The duration, intensity, and accompanying symptoms of the pain in this region (such as fever, burning while urinating, abnormal discharge) provide important clues for accurate evaluation.
What Causes Sudden-Onset Abdominal Pain?
Severe abdominal pain that appears suddenly, within a few minutes to a few hours, is a condition that requires careful evaluation. Appendicitis, a gallstone blocking the duct, kidney stones, stomach or intestinal perforation, intestinal obstruction, and certain gynecological emergencies (such as ovarian cyst torsion) can be counted among the potential causes of sudden-onset severe abdominal pain.
Since such a clinical picture starting suddenly and increasing progressively, intensifying with movement, and proceeding together with fever, vomiting, or altered consciousness may be an emergency, it is recommended to apply to a healthcare institution as soon as possible.
An important point to pay attention to at this juncture is that waiting by using painkillers may delay the recognition of the underlying emergency. The safest approach in the face of sudden and severe pain is to reach a healthcare institution without wasting time instead of trying to self-diagnose.
What Causes Continuous and Persistent Abdominal Pain?
Chronic abdominal pain that continues for days or weeks, easing and increasing again, requires a different evaluation approach. Irritable bowel syndrome, chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer, inflammatory bowel diseases (such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), chronic pancreatic disorders, and certain gynecological conditions are among the conditions that can cause continuous abdominal pain.
Since a clinical picture continuing for a long time and seen together with symptoms such as weight loss, loss of appetite, bloody stooling, or continuous fatigue may be a condition requiring detailed examination, it is important not to delay consulting a doctor.
In complaints with a chronic course, it may not always be possible to reach a definitive result with a single examination; the doctor may recommend check-ups at certain intervals to monitor the course of symptoms or may request additional tests. During this process, the patient noting down his symptoms in a diary (such as when, at what intensity, and with which triggers they appear) is a practical method contributing to accurate evaluation.
What Causes Abdominal Pain After Meals?
Abdominal pain occurring after meals is a very frequently encountered complaint. Overeating and eating quickly, fatty meals, gas-producing foods, and conditions like gastritis are among the common causes of post-meal pain. Gallstones are also one of the conditions that can trigger pain, especially after a fatty meal.
When recurrent pain, bloating, or reflux complaints are noticed after meals, it can be beneficial to review dietary habits and request a doctor's evaluation if necessary.
The amount of time after the meal that the pain starts is also an important clue. While discomfort starting during or immediately following a meal is generally stomach-related, pains appearing 30-60 minutes after a meal and triggered especially by fatty meals can be related to the gallbladder. When such a pattern is noticed, noting down which foods trigger the complaint can contribute to the doctor's evaluation.
What is Good for Abdominal Pain in Children?
Abdominal pain in children is a very common complaint and usually stems from harmless causes such as gas, constipation, or a mild gastroenteritis. However, since children may not be able to express the discomfort they experience as clearly as adults, careful observation by parents is important.
In mild childhood abdominal pain, calming the child, ensuring he rests, giving plenty of fluids, and offering light, easily digestible foods can be counted among supportive approaches. However, the evaluation of abdominal pain in children must be done more carefully than in adults; it is recommended to consult a pediatric specialist in the complaint of abdominal pain in children, especially if the following symptoms accompany it:
- The pain being severe or at a level to make the child cry
- Being accompanied by a high fever
- Continuous vomiting
- The abdomen becoming rigid or tender to the touch
- Pronounced loss of appetite and fatigue
- The pain lasting longer than a few hours
In such cases, instead of waiting with supportive measures applied at home, it is important for the child's health that he is examined by a doctor as soon as possible.
Young children may not clearly describe the location and nature of the discomfort they experience; therefore, parents carefully observing changes in the child's behavior (such as restlessness, crying pattern, the action of holding his belly, avoiding play) can make a significant contribution to the doctor's evaluation. In school-aged children, in recurrent complaints appearing especially in the mornings or before school, psychological factors such as anxiety as well as physical causes may need to be taken into consideration; this evaluation must definitely be carried out under the accompaniment of a pediatrician.
When is Abdominal Pain Dangerous During Pregnancy?
Abdominal pain during pregnancy can be seen depending on normal physiological processes such as the growth of the uterus, stretching of connective tissues, or changes occurring in the digestive system. However, in some cases, abdominal pain can also be a sign of an important health problem that can affect the health of the mother and baby.
It is recommended that every woman experiencing abdominal pain during pregnancy track the intensity, duration, and accompanying symptoms of the pain and share them with an obstetrician and gynecologist. Particularly in the following situations, a healthcare institution should be applied to without wasting time:
- Severe, sudden-onset abdominal pain that does not pass with resting
- Pain seen together with vaginal bleeding or water breaking
- Hardening of the abdomen and development of pronounced tenderness
- Pain appearing together with severe headache, visual disturbance, or sudden swelling in the hands and feet
- Pronounced decrease in baby movements
- Abdominal pain accompanied by fever, chills, or vomiting
- Frequent and regular uterine contractions (may be a sign of premature birth)
Regarding abdominal pain during pregnancy, instead of a "let's wait and see" approach, applying to a doctor without wasting time in every suspicious situation is the safest approach in terms of protecting the health of both the mother and the baby.
In addition, painkillers, antibiotics, or herbal products must not be used for abdominal pain during pregnancy without a doctor's recommendation. For the safety of the mother and baby, all medications and supplements must be used solely in line with the recommendation of the obstetrician and gynecologist.
When is Abdominal Pain Dangerous?
Knowing when abdominal pain may indicate an emergency situation is important in terms of being able to take the right step at the right time. If any of the following symptoms accompany abdominal pain, it is recommended to apply to a healthcare institution without wasting time:
- Sudden-onset, very severe, and progressively increasing pain
- The abdomen becoming excessively tender and rigid to the touch
- Pain proceeding together with high fever
- Continuous vomiting or seeing blood in the vomit
- Blood in the stool or a black, tarry appearance
- Dizziness, feeling of fainting, or confusion of consciousness
- Difficulty in breathing
- Abdominal pain proceeding together with chest pain
- Severe pain appearing during pregnancy
- Pain appearing in an individual who has recently undergone surgery
These symptoms indicate that the underlying condition may require urgent evaluation. In such a clinical picture, instead of losing time by waiting at home, applying to the nearest healthcare institution is the most correct step.
How is Abdominal Pain Diagnosed?
To determine the cause of this complaint, the doctor first takes a detailed history: when the pain started, its duration, intensity, radiation, situations in which it increases or decreases, accompanying symptoms, and the individual's general health history are an important part of this evaluation. Medications used, past surgeries, chronic illnesses, and family history if any, are also among the subjects questioned during this interview.
Then, in the physical examination performed, tenderness, rigidity, swelling in the abdominal region, and bowel sounds are evaluated. The doctor tries to determine the region where the pain is felt most intensely by pressing gently on the abdomen. Findings regarding whether the abdominal lining (peritoneum) is affected or not can also be evaluated with certain special examination methods applied when deemed necessary.
When deemed necessary, one or more of the following tests may be requested:
| Test | Purpose of Use |
|---|---|
| Blood tests | To evaluate infection, inflammation, or organ functions |
| Urinalysis | Suspicion of urinary tract infection or kidney stone |
| Ultrasonography | Evaluation of the gallbladder, liver, kidneys, and gynecological organs |
| Computed tomography (CT) | Situations requiring more detailed imaging |
| Endoscopy / colonoscopy | Direct examination of the internal structure of the stomach or intestines |
| Stool test | Suspicion of infection or bleeding |
The doctor decides which tests are necessary in line with the patient's complaints and examination findings. Therefore, it is recommended that every individual with a complaint of abdominal pain apply to a healthcare institution to receive a professional evaluation instead of trying to self-diagnose.
How is Abdominal Pain Treated?
The treatment approach for abdominal pain varies greatly according to the underlying cause. Therefore, there is no single answer to the question "how is abdominal pain treated"; the treatment plan is shaped according to the diagnosis the doctor will make.
In general, approaches that can be followed in abdominal pain management are summarized in the table below:
| Approach | When It Is Applied |
|---|---|
| Supportive approaches | Rest, diet regulation, fluid supplementation in mild, digestion-related pains |
| Drug therapy | Prescribed by the doctor in infection, inflammation, or acid-related conditions |
| Surgical intervention | In appendicitis, certain gallbladder disorders, or intestinal obstruction |
| Management of chronic conditions | Long-term follow-up in irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel diseases |
The most important step in the treatment process is making the accurate diagnosis. Two different pains felt in the same region and of similar intensity may originate from completely different causes and therefore may require completely different approaches. In some cases, the doctor may prefer to re-evaluate the patient at certain intervals (observation under follow-up) before reaching a definitive diagnosis; this can be a safe approach especially for some conditions in the early stage to become clear.
Therefore, it is recommended that individuals experiencing the complaint consult a doctor to have an evaluation rather than using medication on their own, especially taking painkillers. The use of painkillers is a subject that must be approached with caution since it can lead to a delay in diagnosis by masking the symptoms of a serious underlying condition.
Which Doctor to Visit for Abdominal Pain?
The primary care departments that can be applied to with the complaint of abdominal pain are usually internal medicine (internal medicine) or general surgery. According to the nature of the complaint, referrals to different specialty areas can be made after the evaluation:
| Department | When to Apply |
|---|---|
| Gastroenterology | In chronic or recurrent complaints related to the digestive system |
| General surgery | In conditions that may require surgery such as appendicitis, gallstones |
| Urology | In complaints related to kidney stones or the urinary tract |
| Obstetrics and gynecology | In pain related to the menstrual cycle or of gynecological origin |
| Pediatrics | In abdominal pain complaints seen in children |
| Emergency department | In sudden-onset, severe |