Abdominal pain, or stomach pain, is one of the most common symptoms reported by patients visiting the hospital. Abdominal pain can be caused by diseases of various organs, not just the gastrointestinal system.

 

Abdominal pain can be difficult to distinguish as a symptom and can manifest in various ways, so efforts are needed for accurate diagnosis and treatment. WebMD, an American health and medical media outlet, summarized the reasons for stomach pain and how to deal with it.

 

Food poisoning = bacteria, viruses, and parasites in food cause food poisoning. Symptoms may include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. It occurs when food is not properly handled.

It usually heals on its own, but if dehydration symptoms appear, or if vomit or stool contains blood, or if diarrhea is severe or persists for more than three days, it is advisable to see a doctor. Medical attention is also necessary if there are food poisoning symptoms, other health issues, or a weakened immune system.

 

Gastritis = The digestive fluid, which is a liquid that helps digest food, contains a lot of acid. Digestive fluid often passes through the stomach's protective barrier and irritates the stomach lining, which is called gastritis.

It can occur due to long-term use of bacteria and painkillers such as ibuprofen, excessive alcohol consumption, or stress. Treatment can be done by purchasing antacids at the pharmacy or taking prescribed medication. However, since it can cause bleeding or stomach ulcers, it is advisable to see a doctor for an examination in some cases.

 

Peptic ulcer = An unhealed sore on the inner wall of the stomach or the upper small intestine (small intestine). The most common cause is bacteria.

However, long-term use of aspirin, ibuprofen, and other painkillers can also be a cause. People who smoke or drink alcohol are more likely to develop it. Treatment involves prescribing medications to reduce stomach acid or antibiotics, depending on the cause.

 

Acute gastroenteritis = Acute gastroenteritis is a viral infection of the intestines. It presents with symptoms such as watery diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and may also cause vomiting. It can be transmitted through carriers of intestinal viruses or contaminated food with this virus.

There is no definitive cure, and it usually heals on its own. If you develop a fever, vomit, become dehydrated, or notice blood in vomit or stool, you should visit a hospital for treatment.

 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome = This disease affects the large intestine (colon) and can cause symptoms such as abdominal cramps, bloating, and increased mucus in the stool. Patients may experience alternating diarrhea and constipation.

The exact cause is unclear, but food, stress, hormones, and infections are considered major factors. Doctors can help manage symptoms through changes in diet, lifestyle, and medication.

Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas, an organ that helps the body process sugar (glucose) and digest food, becomes inflamed. It causes pain in the upper abdomen, which worsens after eating. Nausea may occur, and vomiting can also happen.

 

Lactose intolerance = Lactose is a sugar component found in milk and other dairy products. If the enzyme lactase is insufficient, the body may have trouble breaking it down.

It can cause diarrhea, gas, bloating, and abdominal pain. There is no definitive cure. Managing these symptoms can be done by purchasing and consuming lactose-free dairy products or taking over-the-counter pills available at pharmacies.

 

Pelvic inflammatory disease=Occurs in women and is an inflammation of the reproductive organs. It often develops after infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea.

In addition to abdominal pain, there may be fever, abnormal discharge, pain or bleeding during sexual intercourse. If detected early, it can usually be treated with antibiotics. However, delaying treatment for too long may risk damage to the reproductive organs.

 

Food allergy = Occurs when the body mistakenly perceives a certain food as harmful and tries to defend itself. In addition to abdominal pain, symptoms such as tingling and swelling in the mouth and throat may also occur.

If symptoms are severe and not treated immediately, it can cause shock and, in severe cases, death. The treatment is epinephrine. Shellfish, nuts, fish, eggs, peanuts, and milk can cause food allergies.

 

Appendicitis = The appendix is a finger-shaped organ located at the lower right part of the abdomen where the colon begins. Its exact function is unclear, but when it becomes inflamed, it usually gets infected and needs to be removed.

If the appendix ruptures, bacteria can spread. The pain often starts around the navel and spreads to the lower right side. If appendicitis is suspected, you should see a doctor immediately.

 

Gallbladder attack = Occurs when small stones (gallstones) made of digestive fluids block the ducts between the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and small intestine. The most common symptom is abdominal pain, and nausea, vomiting, fever, brown urine, and light-colored stool may also occur.

================

Stomach pain, I would just say it hurts generally.

However, I guess you can't just think of abdominal pain as simple.

If abdominal pain in the same area persists and recurs repeatedly

Don't just leave it alone, you must see a doctor.