The Facts About Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain refers to unpleasant sensations within the stomach region. These sensations can range from mild discomfort to severe pain depending on their cause, taking into account the internal and external factors affecting symptom location and severity. 

It is unlikely to find anyone who hasn't suffered some degree of abdominal pain, from mild constipation and heartburn to debilitating ailments such as appendicitis or cancer. 

Distress in the abdominal cavity can be either localized, generalized or a combination of the two, depending on the cause and the patient.

Some abdominal pain, such as stomach flu or menstrual cramping, is temporary and not usually a cause for concern. However, if symptoms continue or begin to affect other areas, it may be time to seek medical care. For example, fever and shortness of breath indicate the pain has transcended further into the body. Other locations of progression include the shoulder, chest and neck.

Further warning signs can include abdominal swelling and tenderness, weight loss, yellowed skin, extreme pain, bloody and/or abnormal stools, and persistent nausea and/or vomiting. Any of these could be indicative of life-threatening complications.

There are three primary types of abdominal pain: chronic, acute and progressive. Chronic pains often have ambiguous origins and result in moderate to severe symptoms, which may or may not worsen with time. Conversely, acute pains form within hours or days and frequently coincide with other symptoms. Some acute pains go away on their own, while others may indicate an emergency situation. 

By definition, progressive abdominal pains increase in severity. Like acute pains, they also share symptomatic comorbidities, but these are often serious. Several types of cancer, poisoning and Crohn's disease are linked to progressive abdominal pain and necessitate immediate medical care.

The root of the pain depends on the type and the affected area. Many acute pains are caused by inflammation and infections, such as those in the urinary tract, kidneys and intestines. Progressive abdominal pain should never be taken lightly because it could be life-threatening. Crohn's disease is another cause of severe, progressive abdominal pain, affecting the digestive tract and bowels.

Chronic pains are trickier because of their numerous possible conditions within the gastrointestinal and reproductive systems. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), two of the most well-known abdominal afflictions, fall under this category, as do endometriosis and ovarian cysts.

Abdominal pain, regardless of origin, can be dangerous. IBD, which includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis (UC), causes inflammation within the digestive system, along with diarrhea, reduced appetite, stomach ulcers and fistulas. Advanced cases of Crohn's disease may lead to inflammation in other parts of the body or even kidney stones, and those with UC are predisposed to colon cancer.

Along with pain, acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can lead to heartburn, indigestion and bloating, and could potentially cause anemia or cancer. Frequent contact with gastric acid can damage the esophagus and vocal cords.

Though many afflictions causing abdominal pain are incurable, there is some degree of action you can take to prevent them. For people with GERD, IBD, IBS, or food intolerances or sensitivities, avoiding known trigger foods can lessen discomfort. For example, many people experience flare-ups from lactose, gluten or sugary foods. These episodes can be spurred on by stressful situations and certain levels of physical activity.

If someone is experiencing pain accompanied by diarrhea, staying hydrated is pivotal for replenishing the electrolytes and water lost. Some medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are shown to exacerbate stomach pain and should be avoided.

Abdominal pain has literally hundreds of potential causes, and treatment depends on the cause. Two primary types of medical treatment for abdominal pain include medication and surgery.

People may be prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs (excluding NSAIDs), immune system suppressors and/or antibiotics. Doctors can administer pain relievers or targeted medications, such as antacids. They may recommend lifestyle modifications.

If none of the options work, surgery can help. Endometrial tissue can be removed to ease endometriosis pain, similarly to other affected tissue areas. People with ulcerative colitis may need their large intestine replaced with a new waste pathway called a J-pouch, whereas those with Crohn's disease may need an abdominal stoma attached to an ostomy bag to discharge waste.

Following a care plan as closely as possible to alleviate symptoms on your own is the first step to navigating the dating world when you have abdominal pain. Taking medication as directed and avoiding known triggers can decrease the likelihood of flare-ups. Try to relax, as distress is strongly correlated to worsening symptoms.

Partner choice is another significant factor. Find someone you can be honest with who is compassionate and understanding of your condition. Otherwise, the looming threat of judgment may prevent you from seeking a date or sexual relationship.

Chemically, abdominal conditions may disrupt the stomach's microbiome, where nearly all serotonin is produced. This neurotransmitter is essential for feelings of pleasure and libido, and any imbalance can lower sex drive. Sex itself can also trigger symptoms of GERD when you're lying flat because gastric acid is not pulled down by gravity.

A side effect of gastrointestinal (GI) surgeries—such as major bowel resection where more than 7 feet of small bowel has been resected—is sexual dysfunction. Men experience premature ejaculation, while women may need pelvic floor physical therapy to repair its function, especially concerning chronic constipation, which is linked to dyspareunia, or painful intercourse.

For many people, the fear of incontinence is a major issue.

Having a supportive partner when you suffer from abdominal pain can be beneficial. Establish a strong foundation of honesty and respect so there are no misconceptions going into the relationship or during sexual activity.

You should recognize your own boundaries and remember you have the freedom to disclose as much or as little as you're comfortable with in a new relationship.

During sex, if you feel a flare-up coming on, let your partner know promptly. Avoid positions that may cause pain, such as those on your back, stomach or upside down. If you experience shortness of breath, take a break and evaluate your symptoms before continuing.

Whether you experience food poisoning, IBD or endometriosis, symptoms can be severe and detrimental to your health and quality of life. Be aware of yourself and your body and don't take any chances, even if you think it's nothing, because oversights or misdiagnosed ailments can be life-threatening if left untreated.

If you do end up being diagnosed with a chronic or progressive condition, try to stay strong and closely adhere to medical advice. Use a symptom tracker or keep a journal to monitor your progress and establish a large support system of family, friends and medical professionals.

What are the three types of abdominal pain?

There are three primary types of abdominal pain: chronic, acute and progressive. Chronic pains occur over extended periods of time and range in symptom severity, whereas acute pains also differ in strength but are not as prolonged, though they can sometimes indicate a medical emergency. Both may have comorbidities.

Progressive abdominal pains are the most likely to be—or become—severe. They have been linked to several cancers and other potentially fatal conditions.

When should I worry about abdominal pain?

If symptoms continue or begin to affect other areas, such as the chest and neck, it may be time to seek medical care. Further warning signs include abdominal swelling and tenderness, weight loss, yellowed skin, extreme pain, bloody and/or abnormal stools, and persistent nausea and/or vomiting. Any of these physical signs could be indicative of life-threatening complications.

What is the cause of pain below the abdomen?

Much of your intestines and the reproductive system are below the abdomen, and pain originating there has a variety of causes. Some lower abdominal pain is innocuous and stems from circumstances such as motion sickness or trapped flatulence and goes away on its own.

However, there are grievous origins as well. IBS and Crohn's disease can wreak havoc on your GI system, while endometriosis and urinary tract infections (UTIs) can do the same to your reproductive system.