Top 7 Causes for Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is a common symptom of diseases affecting the digestive system including the stomach and intestine. Here are 7 common causes of abdominal pain.

7. Gas

Excessive release of gas in the intestine during the digestion of food is the most common cause of mild abdominal pain and discomfort. It is often accompanied by belching, flatulence, and heaviness in the abdomen. [1]

6. Indigestion

Indigestion may occur due to overeating or eating foods having a high amount of fats and spices. Indigestion can cause adnominal pain along with nausea, vomiting, and sour eructation. Persistent indigestion could be a sign of ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, or irritable bowel syndrome. Patients who suffer from recurrent indigestion usually complain of constipation and have an increased risk of piles and fissures. [2]

5. Gastritis

Increased secretion of acid in the stomach can cause abnormal pain along with nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. Pain caused due to gastritis is usually relieved after vomiting. If not managed properly, gastritis may become worse causing an increased risk of peptic ulcers. [3]

4. Food poisoning

Consumption of contaminated food or drinks may cause food poisoning resulting in abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, and loose motions. It can be avoided by washing fruits and vegetables before eating or cooking and boiling water before drinking. [4]

3. Appendicitis

Severe acute pain in the right lower side of the abdomen could be a sign of appendicitis. It occurs due to the inflammation of the appendix that needs to be treated at the earliest. [5]

2. Gallstones

Severe spasmodic pain in the right side of the abdomen can be due to gallstones. It is usually accompanied by vomiting and yellowish discoloration of the nails and the white part of the eyes. [6]

1. Intestinal obstruction

Sudden severe pain in the abdomen that is followed by vomiting and constipation can be due to intestinal obstruction. Distention of the abdomen that feels very hard like a wooden board is the characteristic sign that often accompanies abdominal pain caused due to intestinal obstruction. [7]

 Conclusion

The characteristics of the pain in the abdomen and the symptoms accompanying it can help to find the underlying disorder responsible for it.