Abdominal pain can affect people from all age groups. Various health issues both within and outside of the digestive system can trigger the pain experience which ranges from mild discomfort to serious discomfort. Abdominal pain typically develops between the rib and hip region while it could serve as either a short-term problem or indicate a significant health matter that needs medical evaluation.
This blog by experts from Friendswood Community Hospital is a detailed guide on abdominal pain. Continue reading for more information. You can also contact our medical teams for expert guidance.
Common Causes of Abdominal Pain
Several conditions can lead to abdominal pain among patients, including:
- Digestive Disorders: Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), diverticulitis, celiac disease, and ulcers.
- Gallbladder and Liver Issues: Gallstones, gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), and liver diseases.
- Structural Problems: Hiatal hernia, intestinal blockage.
- Serious Medical Conditions: Abdominal cancer and other chronic diseases.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Abdominal pain that is mild may disappear by itself but certain symptoms require immediate medical intervention. If you notice any of these signs you should visit Friendswood Community Hospital right away:
- Fever, blood in the stool, or unexplained diarrhea or constipation.
- Abdominal bloating
- Jaundice
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Persistent vomiting or ongoing nausea.
Unusual continued abdominal pain requires medical evaluation even if it causes minimal discomfort since it impairs your regular activities.
Diagnosing Abdominal Pain
Friendswood Community Hospital in Friendswood, TX, relies on experienced medical personnel who perform advanced diagnostic tests to establish abdominal pain causes. The evaluation process includes:
- Physical Examinations: The doctor assesses the patient through physical examinations which reveal symptoms and check for swells and abnormal body masses.
- Laboratory Tests: Includes blood work and urine and stool tests which help detect underlying infections together with other abnormalities.
- Imaging: Imaging tech including X-rays, ultrasounds, and CT scans can provide comprehensive view images of internal organs.
- Endoscopy and Colonoscopy: Patients can undergo two medical tests known as endoscopy and colonoscopy which enable doctors to see inside the stomach and intestines to identify any inflammation or ulcers or other abnormal conditions.
Treatment Options for Abdominal Pain
The treatment approach for abdominal pain differs depending on the underlying issue. Most of the common approaches are as follows:
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs together with antibiotics and pain relievers to treat symptoms.
- Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating stress management techniques, regular exercise, and a balanced diet.
- Surgical procedures: Doctors use surgery as a necessary treatment for cholecystitis patients by removing their gallbladder and performing surgical interventions on the intestines for advanced Crohn’s disease cases. Medical statistics demonstrate that approximately 45% of people with ulcerative colitis ultimately need surgery along with 75% of patients who have Crohn’s disease.
Get Expert Care for Abdominal Pain at Friendswood Community Hospital in Friendswood, TX – Schedule Your Visit Today!
Friendswood Community Hospital operates via a dedicated healthcare team to personalize diagnosis procedures and treatment delivery of abdominal pain. The hospital team works diligently to deliver optimal results to each patient irrespective of their required treatment approaches including medication, lifestyle adjustment, surgical interventions, etc. If you are experiencing persistent abdominal pain, don’t hesitate to seek help- call Friendswood Community Hospital today or visit our website to schedule an appointment with one of our medical team.
