Abdominal pain is pain that occurs between your chest and your pelvis. The sensation you feel may be crampy, achy, dull, intermittent, or sharp. There are many organs in this area of your body that can potentially cause pain, including your:
- Appendix (part of the large intestine)
- Gallbladder
- Intestines (small and large)
- Kidneys
- Liver
- Pancreas
- Spleen
- Stomach
If any of these organs become diseased, swollen, or infected with a virus or bacteria, you will likely experience pain.
Other common causes of abdominal pain are:
- Constipation
- Crohn’s disease
- Diarrhea
- Gastroenteritis
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Lactose intolerance
- Menstruation or complications of the reproductive system (in women)
- Stress
- Vomiting
Tests
Physical Exam
Your GI doctor will do a complete physical exam and gather your health history to diagnose the cause of your abdominal pain.
Balloon Enteroscopy
In this test, your GI doctor will use a special instrument that inflates with air (like a balloon) to closely examine your small intestine.
Imaging tests
Your GI doctor may order imaging tests – such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, ultrasound, or X-ray – to get a closer look at structures in your abdomen.
Treatments
Diet Modifications
Some types of abdominal pain are controllable through diet modifications, including eating a healthy diet, drinking enough water, exercising regularly, and eating smaller meals.
Treatment of Chronic Conditions
If a chronic condition – such as IBS or Crohn’s disease – is causing your abdominal pain, your GI doctor will treat that condition.
Why Choose UHealth?
A broad array of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Regardless of your age, condition, or whether you need long- or short-term digestive treatments, you will receive the most accurate diagnosis and most effective treatment to keep your stomach, digestive system, and organs healthy.
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